The tension was palpable at the pre-fight press conference for UFC 302 in Newark, New Jersey, as lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and challenger Dustin Poirier came remarkably close to a physical altercation. The event, held last night, ended with an intense faceoff that set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying fight this weekend.
During the faceoff, Makhachev leaned in and made an inaudible comment about Poirier’s previous fights in Abu Dhabi, possibly referencing Poirier’s submission loss to Khabib Nurmagomedov or his TKO win over Conor McGregor. Poirier responded with confidence, declaring, “I’m going to knock you out Saturday night. Sleep, I’m going to sleep slap you. You’re going to be diving for my legs praying.”
The intensity escalated when Makhachev curtly told Poirier, “Don’t talk, okay.” In response, Poirier sent a chilling message: “Go to sleep, mother****.” This expletive-laced threat provoked a strong reaction from Makhachev, who warned, “Don’t say that or I’ll slap you,” and appeared to raise his hand towards Poirier’s face.
As security intervened to separate the fighters, Poirier warned, “Don’t ever put your hand in my face, bro,” underscoring the rising tensions between the two athletes.
The press conference highlighted the stakes of the upcoming fight, with both fighters expressing their determination to win. Makhachev, dismissing Poirier’s focus due to retirement talks, stated, “This is his last chance, this is maybe his last fight – this is not focused for the fight.” Poirier, however, confidently responded, “I’m going to pry that belt out of your hands bro, Saturday night.”
Throughout the press conference, Makhachev took the opportunity to taunt Poirier, saying, “Dustin, why are you so nervous man? Relax and enjoy, let’s have fun.” Poirier, ignoring the jibes, told Makhachev he should “listen to his coaches and box with me,” attempting to lure the Dagestani wrestler into a striking contest.
