Dustin Poirier considers retirement after UFC 302 clash with Islam Makhachev

Dustin Poirier admitted he might retire after his title fight with Islam Makhachev at the UFC 302.

Poirier hopes to win the undisputed lightweight belt the third time he asks when he challenges Makhachev on June 1.

The 35-year-old American held the interim title in 2019, but was unable to unify the belts against Makhachev’s friend and mentor, Khabib, losing via submission. In 2021, Poirier returned to compete for gold and was presented by Charles Oliveira.

And the “Diamond” admitted that he will hardly persevere if he loses the main fight of UFC 302, amid rumors that he may retire.

“I’m not going up the stairs again,” Poirier said. CBS on Thursday (May 23). “I’ve been doing this for a long time.

“It’s a very selfish sport. I’m ready to be a father and a husband and be home and have a routine. I wouldn’t say I can’t do it again; I can do this again, it’s just…

“That’s it for me. This could be the last. I’m still on the fence, win or lose. I just want to be happy with my career. It’s something I have to digest and be okay with. [if I lose]because that’s how life works.

“Of course, I’m looking on the bright side and trying to make sure I wrap things up and seal the deal and become undisputed lightweight champion after my 31st fight in the UFC. What a story that would be.”

Poirier last fought in March, knocking out Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 299. The result saw the American recover from a knockout loss to Justin Gaethje Last July.

Poirier, a fan favorite, holds wins over several undisputed UFC champions – including Conor McGregor twice, Max Holloway twice, Michael Chandler, Eddie Alvarez and Anthony Pettis.

However, the 35-year-old didn’t beat either of those fighters while they were champions, although Holloway was the featherweight king when Poirier beat him a second time to become interim lightweight champion.