Dustin Poirier sees distinct similarities and variations between former foe Khabib Nurmagomedov and UFC 302 adversary Islam Makhachev.
Poirier will hope that the ‘third time’s the attraction’ when he faces the light-weight titleholder Makhachev within the UFC 302 principal occasion on June 1. He returns for his third profession lineal light-weight title shot and is hoping to lastly attain the head of the division.
Poirier is using numerous momentum after a knockout win over Benoît Saint-Denis at UFC 299. Arman Tsarukyan was anticipated to be the subsequent title challenger after successful at UFC 300 however declined the title shot resulting from unideal timing.
Poirier will face Nurmagomedov’s star pupil, Makhachev, for a shot at UFC gold. He misplaced to Nurmagomedov at UFC 242 after successful the interim belt towards Max Holloway.
Makhachev and Nurmagomedov are shut mates, allies, and coaching companions. Poirier feels some tendencies make Makhachev a probably harder take a look at than Nurmagomedov.
Dustin Poirier: Islam Makhachev ‘extra versatile’ than Khabib
In a latest look on The MMA Hour, Poirier in contrast Makhachev and Nurmagomedov’s skillsets.
“[Islam’s] submission recreation, Jiu-Jitsu smart, is a little more versatile than Khabib’s was,” Poirier stated of Makhachev. “Khabib had some chokes that he did very well, however Islam’s put himself in dangerous positions, going for armbars, possibly he loses a place however he makes use of his wrestling to get it again. [Islam’s] a bit extra of a menace Jiu-Jitsu smart in scrambles, and his placing is healthier than Khabib.”
Nurmagomedov entered the UFC Corridor of Fame after a legendary 29-0 run contained in the cage. He was recognized for his tenacity, elite wrestling, and harsh ground-and-pound.
Makhachev possesses comparable abilities however has confirmed to be a sniper on the ft. He most just lately knocked out Alexander Volkanovski with a head kick at UFC 294.
Poirier is aware of the tall activity that’s in entrance of him however plans on overcoming the chances and wrapping the undisputed title round his waist. As he enters the warmth of coaching camp, he’s preserving his expertise towards Nurmagomedov on his thoughts, whereas additionally recognizing Makhachev’s distinctive toolbox.