Dustin Poirier may be a sizeable betting underdog for his title fight against UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev tomorrow night (Sat., June 1, 2024) at UFC 302 live on ESPN+ PPV from inside Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., but “Diamond” is still one of the biggest fan favorites on the card.
As one of the most entertaining and exciting fighters in UFC history, Dustin Poirier commands a following wherever he goes. And even though he has never cashed in on an undisputed UFC title shot fight fans are still counting on Poirier to pull of the impossible this weekend at UFC 302. Remember, Makhachev has won his last 12 trips to the Octagon and is currently the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the sport. It’s going to be a tough day at the office for Dustin Poirier if he wants to cap off his career with the ultimate upset.
Earlier this week, fight fans showed massive love for Dustin Poirier as he was exiting UFC 302’s pre-fight press conference. Poirier, who grew up in Lafayette, Louisiana, was seen walking down Lafayette Street in Newark. That’s when a hoard of crazed supporters spotted “Diamond” and rushed him like he was The Beatles. Security had to usher Poirier as he made his way down the road.
Check it out in the above video player and an alternate angle below:
Poirier, who turned 35 earlier this year, is coming off a beautiful knockout stoppage over Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 299 this past March. That performance ultimately landed Poirier his third shot at undisputed UFC gold, but Saturday’s walk to the Octagon at UFC 302 could very well be his last. Maybe that’s why fight fans are taking extra notice.