A potential fourth bout between Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor could be one of the most highly anticipated matchups in UFC history. With McGregor set to make his return against Michael Chandler at UFC 303, there’s growing speculation about whether he and Poirier will clash once more.
Poirier, however, seems uninterested in revisiting the rivalry:
“I think that ship has sailed,” he told ESPN when asked about another fight with McGregor. “All I want is the UFC lightweight championship.”
Dustin Poirier Snubs Nose at Fourth Conor McGregor Fight
At 35, Poirier is gearing up for a crucial fight at UFC 302 on June 1, where he will face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title. His focus is firmly on this opportunity, and he has stated that his ultimate goal is to secure the championship that has eluded him throughout his 15-year career. Despite the potential for a lucrative payday from another bout with McGregor, Poirier remains undeterred from his championship aspirations.
Reflecting on their history, McGregor first defeated Poirier in 2014 when they were both featherweights. McGregor went on to claim the UFC featherweight title and become one of MMA’s biggest stars, while Poirier bounced back and eventually challenged for the lightweight championship, though he fell short against Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2019.
Their paths crossed again at UFC 257 in January 2021, where Poirier avenged his earlier loss by knocking out McGregor in the second round. This set the stage for a highly anticipated trilogy fight at UFC 264 later that year. The lead-up to their third encounter was intense, with both fighters engaging in a bitter exchange of words on social media and during fight week. The fight itself ended dramatically when McGregor broke his leg at the end of the first round, further fueling the animosity between them as he exchanged insults with Poirier, even targeting Poirier’s wife.
The Saga Over?
Despite UFC president Dana White’s expectations for a fourth fight, McGregor’s prolonged absence from the Octagon due to his injury left Poirier to continue his journey, challenging for both the lightweight title and the symbolic “BMF” championship. Over time, Poirier’s interest in facing McGregor again has diminished.
“I’m not interested in fighting him again,” Poirier stated firmly. “I don’t need that [bad] energy in my life.”
For Poirier, his career is no longer defined by his rivalry with McGregor. He’s financially secure and focused on achieving his ultimate goal: becoming the UFC lightweight champion. As he prepares to face Makhachev, Poirier is clear about his priorities and where his efforts are best placed.
As McGregor prepares for his comeback, the possibility of another showdown with Poirier remains a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike. Yet, for Poirier, the chapter with McGregor appears to be closed, at least for now. His eyes are set on the lightweight title, and he’s determined to make the most of his opportunity at UFC 302.
W the idea of a fourth fight between Poirier and McGregor excites many, Poirier himself is focused on a different path. He’s aiming for the top of the lightweight division, leaving behind the contentious history with McGregor to pursue his championship dreams.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
