Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has delivered a stern warning to his protege Islam Makhachev ahead of his highly anticipated UFC 302 title defence against Dustin Poirier.
The undefeated Russian legend, who retired in 2020, took to social media to share his thoughts on Makhachev's upcoming bout. "Don't underestimate Dustin," Khabib wrote in a now-viral post. "He's dangerous everywhere - standing or on the ground."
The Eagle's Crucial Advice
Khabib, who famously submitted Poirier in 2019, emphasised that the American challenger has evolved significantly since their encounter. "His guillotine is world class," Nurmagomedov cautioned, referencing Poirier's signature submission hold that has finished numerous opponents.
The Dagestani mentor advised Makhachev to stick to their team's proven strategy: "Control the pace, wear him down, and take no unnecessary risks." This approach mirrors Khabib's own dominant wrestling-heavy style that saw him retire with a perfect 29-0 record.
Makhachev's Road to UFC 302
Current champion Islam Makhachev enters the June 1st showdown riding a 13-fight win streak. The 32-year-old has successfully defended his title twice since dethroning Charles Oliveira in 2022.
However, Poirier represents perhaps his toughest challenge yet. The Louisiana native holds wins over multiple former champions and is coming off a spectacular knockout victory over Benoît Saint Denis.
Experts Weigh In
MMA analysts are divided on the matchup:
- Some point to Makhachev's suffocating grappling as the key factor
- Others highlight Poirier's improved takedown defence and lethal striking
- The fight's location in Newark, New Jersey adds another layer of intrigue
With Khabib's warning echoing through the MMA world, all eyes will be on whether Makhachev heeds his mentor's advice when he steps into the octagon at UFC 302.
