Islam Makhachev successfully defended his lightweight title and extended his winning streak to 14 fights, the third-longest in UFC history, by submitting Dustin Poirier in the fifth round at UFC 302. Despite facing a determined opponent and a largely hostile crowd, Makhachev improved his record to 26-1 and hinted at possibly moving up a weight class for a new challenge.
Makhachev dominated the Russian’s 155-pound weight class, defending his title for the third time and reaffirming his status as the pound-for-pound best in UFC. However, Poirier (30-9) missed out on the undisputed title for the third time, all ending in submission. At 35, Poirier is contemplating retirement.
Poirier put up a fight, even managing to bloody Makhachev’s face. Still, Makhachev took him down midway through the fifth round and quickly secured a chokehold that Poirier couldn’t shake off. UFC President Dana White praised the fight, acknowledging both fighters’ resilience.
Makhachev’s strength lies in his wrestling background, which he used to control the first round. The crowd cheered on Poirier, the fourth-ranked lightweight, when he resisted a few takedown attempts in the second round. The fighters traded blows in the third and fourth rounds, but Makhachev managed to avoid further punches and secure the win.
The Number One P4P continues his reign 🏆@MAKHACHEVMMA defeats Dustin Poirier by submission to REMAIN the lightweight champion of the world!
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— UFC (@ufc) June 2, 2024
While Makhachev has expressed interest in moving up to 170 pounds, White suggested a match with Arman Tsarukyan, the top-ranked contender in the lightweight category. Makhachev, however, seems set on pursuing another belt to enhance his legacy.
In the co-main event, former middleweight champion Sean Strickland won a split decision over Paulo Costa, marking a return to winning form. Strickland (29-6), who lost the title in his previous bout, expressed his desire for another title shot.
The best in the world 😮💨@MAKHACHEVMMA remains the lightweight champion with a submission victory! #UFC302 pic.twitter.com/LpSwj8PH0T
Advertisement— UFC (@ufc) June 2, 2024
