Conor McGregor is set to return to the UFC in June, but Dustin Poirier has downplayed the possibility of a fourth fight between them.
Poirier is preparing for his latest title challenge against 155lbs champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 on June 2, aiming to finally secure the championship belt. Despite this, there is continued speculation about a fourth bout with McGregor, whom Poirier has faced three times, most recently in their July 2021 trilogy fight.
However, Poirier insists the rivalry is behind him. He told ESPN, “I think that ship has sailed. All I want is the UFC lightweight championship. I don’t feel the need to fight him again at all. I don’t need that [bad] energy in my life.”
McGregor first defeated Poirier via knockout in 2014. Their rematch came seven years later in January 2021, where Poirier avenged his loss by knocking out McGregor. Their trilogy fight occurred six months later, ending with McGregor breaking his leg.
A fourth fight was anticipated for McGregor’s return, but delays have slowed these rumors. Instead, McGregor is set to face Michael Chandler at 170lbs on June 29, after gaining weight during his hiatus from the octagon.
Having fought both Chandler and McGregor, Poirier believes McGregor will win within two rounds. He said, “If Conor comes back with his timing and rhythm – despite the injury and long layoff – and if he’s anything like he was before, I think he stops Michael Chandler. If Conor is who he was before the injury, I think the fight is over in two rounds.”
Credit: TalkSport
