Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje express that the upcoming match is about more than just securing a title. The lightweight favorites are set to be the highlight of UFC 291 taking place at Delta Center in Salt Lake City. The match is a highly anticipated rematch of their unforgettable UFC Glendale fight in April 2018, which Poirier claimed victory in by a knockout in the fourth round.
During Thursday’s press conference, they were questioned about the significance of the “BMF” title for the upcoming fight. Gaethje expressed his admiration for the title and shared that it would add to their legacy. “I’ve seen it and it’s a sight to behold,” said Gaethje. “It would look fantastic on my wall. It would really elevate our legacy. We all aspire to create a lasting legacy, and this is a significant part of that.”
Poirier concurred with Gaethje’s sentiments and pledged to bring home a second BMF belt to the American Top Team, following Jorge Masvidal who won the first BMF title in 2019. Poirier commented, “It’s indeed a legacy-defining match. We have one such belt at my gym, and this one will be right beside it.”
The first fight between Poirier and Gaethje was highly acclaimed, even featuring in MMA Hook’s Fight of the Year. Fans have been eagerly anticipating a rematch, despite both fighters enjoying their own successes in one of the MMA’s most competitive divisions. Both Poirier and Gaethje have held interim lightweight titles at UFC 236 and UFC 249, respectively.
Poirier had once admitted to Gaethje, after their intense first fight, that he was unsure about a rematch. However, when the rematch was officially proposed, Poirier didn’t think twice. “At the time I said that, the rematch was not yet on the table,” Poirier admitted. “I didn’t foresee it as the next match. But when the call came and I heard it was Justin, I felt a rush of excitement and knew it was something we had to do.”
It remains to be seen where a win at UFC 291 would place either Poirier or Gaethje in the rankings. However, a shot at the lightweight championship is still a feasible outcome. They are both eyeing this prize, despite the additional lure of the BMF title this Saturday.
Poirier stated that the BMF title is a remarkable milestone but compared it to an interim title, “It’s a significant part of history and it’s fantastic for my legacy, but the ultimate prize is the undisputed title. The interim belt was a step towards becoming the undisputed world champion, which is the ultimate aim.”
Echoing Poirier’s sentiments, Gaethje added, “This is phenomenal, but in terms of legacy, it doesn’t measure up to a world championship belt. Winning this fight could propel either one of us into that title fight, and that’s the true significance here.”
Poirier seems to have an edge going into the rematch as he has historically fared well in rematches. He has notable wins over Conor McGregor, Max Holloway, and Eddie Alvarez. Despite his prior success in rematch bouts, Poirier does not consider it a deciding factor.
“It’s been five years since our first fight,” Poirier said. “My team and I have approached this as a completely new fight. We watched our first fight at the beginning of camp and haven’t watched it since. This is a new fight.”
He added, “I’m not relying on that first fight for momentum, I’m drawing from my entire career. My recent fights, my growth, my confidence, my mindset – these are what drive me, not that initial fight. As I’ve said before, this is a new fight. If we haven’t improved over five years, then we’ve squandered five years of our lives.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC 291
Who are the main fighters headlining UFC 291?
The main fighters headlining UFC 291 are Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje.
What significance does the BMF title have for Poirier and Gaethje?
The BMF title is deemed as a legacy-enhancing achievement by both fighters. They believe that it’s not just a trophy, but a symbol of their contributions to the sport.
Where is UFC 291 taking place?
UFC 291 is taking place at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City.
Who won the first match between Poirier and Gaethje?
Dustin Poirier won the first match against Justin Gaethje, which took place in April 2018 at UFC Glendale.
Who was the first winner of the BMF title?
The first winner of the BMF title was Jorge Masvidal in 2019.
Are Poirier and Gaethje fighting for a lightweight championship in UFC 291?
While the BMF title is on the line at UFC 291, Poirier and Gaethje are also keeping an eye on a shot at the lightweight championship, which could be a possibility following this fight.
How has Poirier performed in rematch fights in the past?
Historically, Poirier has done well in rematch fights, holding wins over Conor McGregor, Max Holloway, and Eddie Alvarez. However, he doesn’t consider this a decisive factor for the upcoming match.
More about UFC 291
- Dustin Poirier’s Fighter Profile
- Justin Gaethje’s Fighter Profile
- History of UFC Interim Titles
- Jorge Masvidal’s BMF Title Win
- Details about UFC 291
- Recap of Poirier vs Gaethje’s first match
- Overview of Conor McGregor vs Dustin Poirier
6 comments
Poirier has the edge in rematches but Gaethje ain’t no walkover, gonna be a helluva fight!
Man, can’t wait for this fight! Poirier vs Gaethje again? pure gold! Dustin’s gonna knock it out of the park again, just watch!
Honestly, I’m team Gaethje all the way. He’s got something to prove this time, and i think he’s gonna do it.
can’t belive Dustin agreed for a rematch after what they went thru last time. These guys are real warriors, respect!
so we got the BMF title on the line and a possible shot at lightweight championship too? This is gonna be EPIC. Clear the schedules, folks, this is a must-see.
this is it! Legacy fight indeed. it’s not just about the belt anymore, it’s about writing history, so excited!