“I Had To Sit on That Loss for That Long”: Ahead of His BMF Title Fight Against Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier Revisits His Loss Against Conor McGregor at UFC 178

Two of the UFC’s most prolific strikers, Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, are scheduled to lock horns in the main event of UFC 291. The former UFC Lightweight Interim Champions will clash for the BMF title on July 29th at Delta Center, Utah. With less than two months left for the upcoming bout, the camps on both sides are in full swing. Along with the preparation, both fighters have been in the highlight for their opinion on the BMF strap and the upcoming fight.

In his latest interview with MMA junkie, Dustin Poirier reflected his thoughts on his upcoming bout with former rival Justin Gaethje. Unlike the Arizona native, ‘Diamond’ has been in rematches with Conor McGregor and Max Holloway before. But unlike his rematch with McGregor, Dustin will go inside the octagon with a lead against his fellow American. Thus, according to the former two-time UFC title challenger, he is aware of what’s going on with Justin Gaethje leading to the fight, as he has been in the same position before. In Dustin’s own words:

“You know Conor beat me in 2014. I didn’t find him like seven years later. I fought the guy, you know. I had to sit on that loss for that long. So in Camp that motivated me to defeat this man, you know, and I’m sure Justin is gonna use that as well. So I’m expecting the best Justin that’s ever been out there, you know”

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For context, Dustin Poirier lost to Conor McGregor during their first encounter at UFC 178 via a first-round stoppage. But seven years later, the Louisiana native didn’t just settle the score with the Irishman, but also won the trilogy. If Dustin is to be believed, his wait for the rematch motivated him in the camp, ultimately leading to his victory against ‘Notorious’. Thus, he expects the same from Justin and will prepare for the best version of ‘Highlight’. However, despite his rival’s motivation for revenge, Poirier believes he could triumph once again.

Despite the backlash, the BMF title makes sense to Dustin Poirier

UFC has resurrected the BMF title once again and would be on the line at the main event of UFC 291 between Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier. But given the obscure history of the title, the decision has attracted a fair share of criticism. Regardless of this, Dustin Poirier showed his support for UFC’s decision in the same interview with MMA Junkie.

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In the former featherweight’s opinion, the belt makes sense given the two fighters’ history. He further added that he would like to have the strap around his waist. But for now, Poirier has no plans to defend it. The lightweight even nodded to Daniel Cormier’s suggestion of introducing the BMF belt in every weight class.