“He is Going to Land Something Big”: Dustin Poirier Has a Surprise Prediction for Tony Ferguson vs Justin Gaethje

When it was known that Khabib Nurmagomedov will not be able to compete in UFC 249 against Tony Ferguson, Dustin Poirier was one of the first names that came in as a possible replacement. However, Poirier recently fought Nurmagomedov at UFC 242 in September. If he manages a win at UFC 249, it would lead to an immediate rematch with Khabib. Poirier believed it was the reason why Justin Gaethje got the nod ahead of him as Khabib’s replacement.

“I think that’s exactly what it was. Me coming off the loss to Khabib, it’s just a new contender, a guy on a streak, an exciting fight,” Poirier told MMA Junkie on Wednesday. “It’s just what happens. It’s business. I understand it’s a business. I can’t twist their arm and make them do things. Of course I would love to be in there across from Tony, but it’s all good. I’ve just got to fight and win, and everything will resolve itself.”

Dustin Poirier gives his predictions for Tony Ferguson vs Justin Gaethje at UFC 249

UFC president Dana White made a bold decision by scheduling the fighting event amidst the pandemic, though he took a few precautionary measures. The fight between Gaethje and Ferguson will take place on April 19 at a location that is yet undisclosed.

Whatever might be the location, Poirier felt Gaethje was in a good position to beat Ferguson.

“I think (Gaethje is) going to knock Tony out,” Poirier said. “Both guys on the technical side of it don’t have the most crisp technique when it comes to kickboxing, but they’re both very damaging fighters.”

“They both go in with reckless abandonment of their own self to land the big shots. I just think Gaethje is going to land something big on the inside and hurt Tony, man. I really do. We’ve seen Tony hurt a few times. I just think Gaethje is going to be the one to finish him.”