With UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev currently unbooked and eager to defend his title, an unexpected contender may emerge to challenge him.
Dustin Poirier revitalized his contender status this past Saturday with a second-round knockout victory over Benoit Saint-Denis in the co-main event of UFC 299. Following the fight, both Makhachev and his management team voiced their interest in facing “The Diamond” in the octagon.
In a pure meritocracy, Poirier (30-8 MMA, 22-7 UFC) might not be the immediate next opponent for Makhachev (25-1 MMA, 14-1 UFC). Arguments could be made that the winner of the Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway fight for the BMF belt at UFC 300, as well as the victor of Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan on the same April 13 card in Las Vegas, have stronger claims.
However, UFC schedule is heavily influenced by timing, and with Makhachev aiming for a return to the octagon in June, the circumstances might favor Poirier securing the fight. But the question arises: is this decision fair or foul?
This debate was explored in detail on the latest episode of “Spinning Back Clique,” featuring insights from Nolan King, Brian “Goze” Garcia, and guest panelist “Big” John McCarty, who joined host “Gorgeous” George Garcia to dissect the 155-pound title picture.
