Dustin Poirier anticipates an inevitable rematch with Justin Gaethje at UFC 291 this Saturday in Salt Lake City, with the vacant BMF title on the line.
“When I was informed that Justin might be the opponent, I felt that familiar rush of excitement and nerves. It’s like destiny; we just have to do this,” Poirier shared at the UFC 291 media day. “Five years ago, I defeated him, and since then, both of us have achieved great things. It feels like we’ve been destined to collide again. As the No. 2 and No. 3 contenders, and with the champ already booked, it makes perfect sense in the division.”
Their initial encounter saw Poirier claim victory over Gaethje, the former interim lightweight champion, in the fourth round. With Poirier’s recent win over Michael Chandler at UFC 281 and Gaethje’s triumph over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286 in March, the stage was set for their second showdown.
At this stage of their careers, Poirier and Gaethje have experienced it all, except for securing the undisputed lightweight title. In October, Islam Makahchev and Charles Oliveira will compete in their title fight rematch at UFC 294, and the winner of Saturday’s main event will likely be in line to face the victor.
While Poirier acknowledges what’s at stake, he remains focused on the present and the formidable challenge ahead on Saturday night.
“We all know what this fight means, and I’m more than willing to embrace it,” Poirier asserted. “It’s when I’m at my best. Justin exudes that chaotic, violent aura, and that’s what makes him who he is. But I possess the same qualities, and he knows it. So, let’s go there and give it everything we’ve got.”
When discussing potential future matchups, Poirier also expressed interest in facing his old rival Nate Diaz, who is set to have a boxing match against Jake Paul on August 5. If Diaz returns to the UFC after that, Poirier is open to welcoming him back and is confident in his ability to triumph over the seasoned fighter.
“If he decides to come back, I’ll be ready to take him on and beat him up,” Poirier stated confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about rematch
Q: What is happening at UFC 291?
A: At UFC 291, there will be a highly anticipated rematch between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje for the vacant BMF (Baddest Motherf**ker) title. The event is taking place in Salt Lake City.
Q: Have Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje fought before?
A: Yes, they have fought before. Five years ago, Dustin Poirier emerged victorious in their first encounter, defeating Justin Gaethje.
Q: What makes this rematch significant?
A: Both Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje have accomplished remarkable feats in their careers, with the exception of capturing the undisputed lightweight title. This rematch is seen as a collision of two top contenders in the division.
Q: What’s at stake for the winner of this fight?
A: The winner of the Poirier vs. Gaethje rematch will likely be in a strong position to challenge the victor of the Islam Makahchev vs. Charles Oliveira title fight at UFC 294 in October.
Q: What does Dustin Poirier think about the upcoming fight?
A: Dustin Poirier is excited about the challenge and recognizes the significance of this bout. He believes that going up against Justin Gaethje brings out the best in him and is confident in his ability to deliver an impressive performance.
Q: Is there a possibility of a future matchup involving Nate Diaz?
A: Yes, Dustin Poirier expressed interest in facing his old rival Nate Diaz. Diaz is scheduled to have a boxing match against Jake Paul, and if he returns to the UFC afterward, Poirier is open to welcoming him back to the Octagon.
Q: What’s next for the winner of the Poirier vs. Gaethje fight?
A: The winner of the Poirier vs. Gaethje fight will likely be considered a top contender for the undisputed lightweight title. They could potentially face the winner of the Islam Makahchev vs. Charles Oliveira title bout at UFC 294 for a shot at the championship.
More about rematch
- UFC 291 Event Information
- Dustin Poirier UFC Fighter Profile
- Justin Gaethje UFC Fighter Profile
- UFC BMF Title Information
- UFC 294 Event Information
- Islam Makahchev UFC Fighter Profile
- Charles Oliveira UFC Fighter Profile
- Nate Diaz UFC Fighter Profile
- Jake Paul Boxing Match Information
