Dustin Poirier Admits Taking ‘Extreme’ Measures for Benoit Saint-Denis Fight at UFC 299

The former UFC interim lightweight champion had the performance of his career by knocking out one of the most dangerous up-and-coming fighters in the division. Dustin Poirier had a whole different aura to him this week and that might be the reason for what he did differently in the fight game.

During a recent airing of “The MMA Hour”, “The Diamond” revealed his mindset going into the fight against the Frenchman. Here is what Poirier Revealed.

Dustin Poirier reveals his mindset leading up to UFC 299

We could see that Dustin Poirier went to extremes training for the fight at UFC 299 as he absolutely looked like he had been in the best shape of his life. And at 35 years old, it seemed even more impressive. He revealed what he did to prepare saying, “I practiced a lot of mindfulness this camp I kind of blocked myself off from everybody I have so many people to catch up with because I didn’t respond to any texts. I didn’t answer any calls. Like I was just freaking… I took myself into another place this training camp.”

Poirier admitted that he not only cut off friends and acquaintances but also his own family to prepare for this fight. He admitted to not talking to his father for his entire fight camp. “I didn’t return any calls to anyone,” said “Diamond” as he claimed that he wanted to block any or all distractions from the fight.

However, despite his extreme camp, Poirier didn’t seem too tense throughout the fight. Not only was he not tense, but he also seemed to be enjoying everything. And as curious as it may sound, it can all be credited to his loss against Justin Gaethje.

Also Read: UFC Hofer Highlights BSD’s Biggest Mistake Against Dustin Poirier That Cost UFC 299 Glory

Poirier explains how losing to Gaethje had helped him perform in the fight

In the same interview with Helwani, the former interim champ revealed that he did feel down after his loss at UFC 291, especially growing older and being that close to getting another title shot. However, he managed a way to look at things differently.

His loss to Gaethje helped him understand the little time he has left in the sport after such a long and reputed career. He revealed that the loss was the reason he embraced the entire fight week. “Even in the tunnel before I walked out of this training camp like I was just more grateful for everything because I really mean it. Like, every time I do this could be the last time and I just want to enjoy those feelings, those feelings, and those emotions,” he told Helwani.

Given the risk Poirier took fighting Saint-Dennis, do you believe he deserves a big reward with another shot at UFC gold? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

Also Read: Dustin Poirier’s Tattoos 2024: Meaning Behind UFC Star’s Back and Other Iconic Inks