Back in 2019, Dustin Poirier had received the opportunity to compete for the UFC championship with unbeaten boxer Khabib Nurmagomedov in UFC 242. In a moment in the first half, the Khabib champion was almost locked with a guillotine squeezed key. Although Khabib escaped the locking position shortly thereafter, for Poirier, the victory came very close in this situation.
“The victory has come very close. But he sent a mile. Unfortunately I did not switch to the D'Arce or Anaconda lock when Khabib tried to turn around,” Poirier shared with commentator Joe Rogan.
No matter how regretful, Khabib Nurmagomedov was also the final winner. Moreover, this Russian boxer has now declared retired with an unbeaten record. If you want or not, Poirier has no chance to revenge.
“I am not sure if Khabib is the strongest opponent I have ever clashed. But the way he kept the focus and balance when playing too excellent. According to the experience of a long -standing Wrestling, I felt that Khabib knew where my body was lying, he understood how to escape so that I could control it. It was difficult to explain details, but I had to recognize Khabib,” Poirier said.
After the defeat against Khabib, Dustin Poirier returned stronger with two consecutive victories against Dan Hooker and Conor McGregor. If UFC officially deprived Khabib's championship, Poirier would surely be the first to be mentioned for the emperor.