As UFC 302 approaches, all eyes are on the highly anticipated matchup between Dustin Poirier and Islam Makhachev. Poirier, a former interim lightweight champion, will be looking to pull off a major upset against the undefeated Makhachev, who is currently on a seven-fight winning streak.
The odds are stacked against Poirier, with Makhachev being heavily favored to come out on top. However, Poirier is no stranger to playing the role of underdog and has proven time and time again that he is more than capable of pulling off the upset.
Makhachev, a protege of UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, is known for his grappling prowess and has been dominating the lightweight division with his impressive performances. However, Poirier is a seasoned veteran with an impressive striking game and a never-say-die attitude that has seen him defeat some of the best fighters in the world.
One of the key factors to consider in this matchup is the stylistic clash between the two fighters. Makhachev will be looking to take the fight to the ground and utilize his superior grappling skills, while Poirier will be looking to keep the fight standing and use his striking to pick apart his opponent.
In terms of experience, Poirier has faced and defeated top-level competition throughout his career, including former champions such as Eddie Alvarez and Max Holloway. Makhachev, on the other hand, has yet to face someone of Poirier’s caliber and could potentially struggle against the high-level opposition.
The betting odds currently have Makhachev as a heavy favorite, but with Poirier’s track record of pulling off upsets and his never-say-die attitude, anything is possible in the world of MMA. This matchup has all the makings of a potential Fight of the Night contender and fans can expect fireworks when these two warriors step into the Octagon.
With the fight just around the corner, fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of the best lightweights in the world. Will Poirier be able to pull off the upset and hand Makhachev his first loss, or will the Russian phenom continue his dominant run through the division? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – this is a fight that fans do not want to miss.