Former interim light-weight champion, Dustin Poirier seems to have his curiosity piqued for the reason that rumors of a divisional transfer for present featherweight kingpin, Ilia Topuria — seemingly endorsing a matchup with the explosive fighter within the new yr.
Poirier, the present quantity 4 rated light-weight challenger, has been out of motion for the reason that starting of June, most just lately headlining UFC 302 in a title struggle for undisputed spoils in opposition to pound-for-pound primary, Islam Makhachev.
Dropping a close-fought fifth spherical D’Arce choke submission loss to the Russian, former interim kingpin, Dustin Poirier has confirmed in current months his plans to compete not less than twice extra within the Octagon — significantly if afforded the chance to struggle in his native Louisana once more.
As for Topuria, the undisputed light-weight champion headlined UFC 308 again in October, delivering a shocking knockout victory over common-foe, Max Holloway — turning into the primary fighter to cease the Hawaiian with strikes in skilled blended martial arts.
Nevertheless, this week, Georgian-Spaniard striker, Topuria revealed plans to probably ditch his featherweight crown, calling out former light-weight champion, Charles Oliveira — with views to a everlasting light-weight climb.
“We need to talk about it and take a look at my future, but for me, it’s very clear how I want to do it,” Ilia Topuria stated. “I’d like to move up to the next weight class, and since Islam [Makhachev] is the champion fighting in January, and he won’t be ready for April or May, I’d like to fight against the No. 1 contender right now, who’s Charles Oliveira… I’m 27; I hope to be out by 30.”
Dustin Poirier open to conflict with Ilia Topuria in light-weight debut
And reacting to a put up on social media wherein a fan urged Topuria ought to face off with Lafayette striker, Dustin Poirier sooner or later if he makes good on a rumored transfer — the latter reposted the remark, endorsing a fan-favorite pairing between the duo.
