It’s an unusual, yet satisfying, scenario when the fighter who just lost his third and likely final shot at a UFC title walks away looking like a hero. Such was the case on June 1, 2024, when Dustin Poirier was defeated by 155-pound champion Islam Makhachev via a fifth-round submission. This defeat marks Poirier’s third loss in his last five fights, a record that might not seem impressive on the surface. However, numbers alone fail to capture the essence of why people watch professional fighting, particularly in the case of UFC 302’s main event and Poirier’s entire career.
These post fight scenes between Islam Makhachev, Dustin Poirier and Khabib Nurmagomedov are incredible. So much respect on display here.
pic.twitter.com/cRGY8YSEHQ— Chamatkar Sandhu (@SandhuMMA) June 2, 2024
Based purely on skill, Poirier should have never reached the fifth round against Makhachev. The champion was faster, stronger, and vastly superior on the mat. Anyone who saw Makhachev take Poirier down and secure his back two minutes into the first round would have likely predicted a quick finish. Yet, such assumptions underestimate the indomitable spirit that Poirier possesses.
Poirier’s journey from that difficult first round to a competitive and bloody final round was not just about toughness, though that was certainly part of it. It was also about the hard-earned knowledge and experience from years of fighting. Throughout the match, Poirier adapted to Makhachev’s style. He avoided the fence, thwarted many takedowns, and when taken down, he managed to get back on his feet. Poirier forced Makhachev into a grueling battle, finding moments to strike even as fatigue set in.
Dustin Poirier embraces his family after his loss ❤️ #UFC302 pic.twitter.com/5Lx30l15zT
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) June 2, 2024
Despite his valiant efforts, it wasn’t enough. Makhachev’s toughness, combined with his impeccable wrestling and submission skills, proved too formidable. His final takedown was executed flawlessly, transitioning seamlessly into a guillotine choke and then into the fight-ending D’arce choke. The match ended in a way emblematic of Poirier’s career: so close, yet so far.
But Poirier’s legacy is not just about the losses. It’s about his relentless pursuit and the heart he shows in every fight. He didn’t earn his beloved status in the sport by always winning. Instead, he gained admiration by giving everything he had, embodying a raw, real, and sincere fighting spirit. Poirier was never afraid to try and fail, then try again. This tenacity and authenticity are what resonate with fans, far beyond what any record book can capture.
A true legend 💎#UFC302 | @DustinPoirier pic.twitter.com/4eBwM2oNDp
— UFC (@ufc) June 2, 2024
Other notable moments from UFC 302 included:
- Sean Strickland secured another win in his usual manner, promising a “bloodbath” but instead earning a split-decision victory over Paulo Costa in the co-main event. Strickland’s fights often promise more than they deliver, with his methodical style proving effective but not particularly exciting.
- Michal Oleksiejczuk faced an early stoppage by referee Herb Dean after being trapped in an armbar by Kevin Holland. Despite his protests, Oleksiejczuk’s inability to use his arm validated the decision. His one-armed gestures of indignation were a clear sign that Dean’s call was justified.
- Jailton Almeida made a compelling case for a match against Ciryl Gane in Paris after effortlessly defeating Alexander Romanov. This proposed bout would test Gane’s improved ground game and provide Almeida with a worthy challenge, promising an intriguing matchup.
In the end, UFC 302 will be remembered not just for the outcomes, but for the stories and fighters who continue to embody the spirit of the sport, with Dustin Poirier standing out as a prime example of heart and perseverance.
Major Points:
- Dustin Poirier lost to Islam Makhachev via fifth-round submission at UFC 302, marking his third defeat in his last five fights.
- Despite Makhachev’s superior speed, strength, and grappling skills, Poirier showed remarkable resilience and adaptability throughout the fight.
- Poirier’s legacy is defined by his relentless fighting spirit and authenticity, earning him admiration beyond just his win-loss record.
- Other notable fights at UFC 302 included Sean Strickland’s split-decision win over Paulo Costa and Kevin Holland’s armbar victory over Michal Oleksiejczuk.
- Jailton Almeida called for a match against Ciryl Gane in Paris after defeating Alexander Romanov, proposing an exciting challenge to test Gane’s ground game.
Charles William III – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
