Manager: Islam Makhachev ‘Game’ to Fight Dustin Poirier in June

Dustin Poirier has seemingly altered the lightweight title picture with his victory over Benoit St. Denis in the UFC 299 co-main event on Saturday.

The lightweight contender was an underdog going into his clash against an unranked St. Denis. After surviving high pace and pressure from the Frenchman in the opening frame, Poirier came from behind to score a brutal knockout in the second round.

Having bounced back from a knockout loss against Justin Gaethje in perfect fashion, Poirier called for a title shot against Islam Makhachev in June.

Islam in June 😤

— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) March 10, 2024

Makhachev, meanwhile, was impressed by Poirier’s performance and praised him on social media.

Very impressive Dustin 👏🏻💎

— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) March 10, 2024

Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, later claimed on social media that the reigning lightweight champ “would be game” to defendhis strap against “The Diamond” in June.

Dustin Poirier took a huge risk tonight and came out on top and looked amazing. Dustin vs @MAKHACHEVMMA in June especially since everyone else has fights. If the UFC is good with this then Islam would be game.

— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) March 10, 2024

There is some validity to Abelaziz’s statement. Gaethje, who was believed to be the top contender at 155 pounds, is scheduled to defend his BMF title against Max Holloway at UFC 300 on April 13. That card will also include a lightweight title eliminator between Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan. If June proves to be too quick of a turnaround for any of those lightweights, Poirier could be next in line to face Makhachev.