The Last Waltz of Dustin Poirier's Legendary MMA Career

The Last Waltz of Dustin Poirier's Legendary MMA Career

In what will likely be remembered as the last waltz of Dustin Poirier's legendary MMA career, the beloved action hero fought courageously despite coming up short in his third attempt at securing the elusive undisputed lightweight title.

It was Islam Makhachev's night on Saturday as the lightweight champion tied the record for the most title defenses in 155-pound history (three) by staving off a Poirier rally to secure a fifth-round submission via D'Arce choke. The bout headlined UFC 302 in Newark, New Jersey.

Here are the biggest takeaways from the UFC's return to the Prudential Center.

1. **Poirier Remains the Heart and Soul of the UFC**

Dustin Poirier might not be the biggest star or the most accomplished fighter in UFC history, but his guts, commitment, and resiliency are unmatched. At 35, Poirier faced the top pound-for-pound fighter today and nearly pulled off what would have been one of the most emotional title wins in UFC history. Even though he came up short, as he did twice before in title fights, Poirier's performance on Saturday was a testament to everything that makes him special. Unlike Michael Bisping, who needed a late-career upset to secure his legacy, Poirier, with his humble heart and blue-collar work ethic, is already a shoe-in for the UFC Hall of Fame. He proved his worth once more by overcoming a nearly disastrous start against Makhachev, stuffing takedown attempts, and landing powerful shots that bloodied the dominant champion and pushed him deeper than any opponent during Makhachev's 14-fight win streak.

The fact that Makhachev's team jumped the Octagon fence to celebrate after Poirier was put to sleep shows just how much of a threat Poirier was at the time of the stoppage in Round 5. One of the judges even had the fight tied entering the final round. Although Poirier wouldn't commit to retirement, he expressed a lack of motivation to pursue more challenges, preferring to spend time with his young family. A true warrior inside the cage, Poirier can proudly walk away knowing he had one of the most honest and respected runs in UFC history.

2. **Makhachev Deserves a Shot at a Second Division Title**

Islam Makhachev used his post-fight interview to plead for a welterweight title shot. Considering his dominance over the last 14 fights, including finishes of former champions like Charles Oliveira and Alexander Volkanovski, it would be hard for the UFC to deny him this opportunity. Reigning 170-pound champion Leon Edwards will defend his title against Belal Muhammad in July, while rising contender Shavkat Rahmanov continues to loom. But Makhachev, who is physically large for the lightweight division, would be an instant threat if he moved up to welterweight. Fighting closer to his natural weight should enhance his stamina and wrestling prowess. Makhachev is a well-rounded fighter and clinical striker, making it intriguing to see how he would handle the 15-pound difference between divisions. At 32, while still in his prime, the time is ripe for Makhachev to pursue greatness in a second division.

3. **Sean Strickland Holds Serve in the Middleweight Title Picture**

Just over four months after a disputed title loss to Dricus du Plessis, former 185-pound champion Sean Strickland likely earned another title shot by accepting a lower-ranked opponent and handling him with relative ease against Paulo Costa in Saturday's co-main event. Strickland showcased his technical striking, using volume to back Costa up and mute his offensive attack. However, Strickland's inability to push for a finish, despite his trainer's urging, resulted in a surprising split-decision win. None of the judges should have scored the fight for Costa, especially not 49-46 as one judge did, likely due to Costa's focus on leg kicks. Strickland, at 33, proved he remains among the elite strikers with his head movement and intelligent pressure. By handing Costa his fourth loss in five fights, Strickland made him look basic and limited, despite Costa's reputation as a knockout artist.