Dustin Poirier still unsure about retirement ahead of UFC 302, but ‘I’m not going to climb the ladder again’


If Dustin Poirier is one thing, he’s certainly consistent when it comes to his fighting future heading into his UFC 302 title shot.

Poirier challenges Islam Makhachev in the main event of the June 1 pay-per-view event. Throughout the build to the fight — and previous bouts — Poirier has constantly been asked about retirement, and whether or not his upcoming fight will be his last. Speaking to CBS Sports, Poirier, once again, said that it’s something he’s certainly considering, but a final decision hasn’t been made.

“I’m capable of anything,” Poirier said. “I can climb back to this spot and fight again for the world title. I can do anything. I can grind back to it, I know I can. It’s just that I don’t have it in me, and I’m not going to do it again.

“I’m not going to climb the ladder again. I’ve been doing this a long time. This is a very selfish sport. I’m ready to be a father, and be a husband, and be home, and be in a routine. I wouldn’t say I can’t do it again, I can do it again. It’s just, this is it for me.”

“The Diamond” relayed similar sentiments in a recent appearance on The MMA Hour — going back to the beginning of his fighting career and setting a goal that he’d be done fighting at the age of 35. Poirier also said he’s financially secure, most notably after two massive wins over Conor McGregor in 2021. Winning the undisputed lightweight title would be the cherry on top of the sundae that is Poirier’s 38-fight career, which includes an interim title win against Max Holloway at UFC 236 in 2019.

Poirier said on The MMA Hour that he knows it’s his “last shot” at becoming champion, but is still mum on the retirement decision just days before his fight with Makhachev.

“I’m still on the fence, win or lose,” Poirier said. “I just want to be content with my career.”



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