Dustin Poirier is edging ever closer to the final fight of his incredible career in the UFC.
Following another unsuccessful pursuit of the UFC lightweight title last June, Dustin Poirier decided that his next walk to the cage would be his final one.
After losing to Islam Makhachev, Poirier was seemingly edging towards retirement there and then, however, took the time to make the decision that he would have one last outing.
Since then, ‘The Diamond’ has continuously hinted at his potential comeback opponent, stating that he would like to complete a trilogy with Justin Gaethje.
Dustin Poirier shuts down potential fight against Paddy Pimblett
Despite that, unfortunately for Poirier and the fans, Justin Gaethje is set to take on Dan Hooker in a guaranteed Fight of the Year contender fight at UFC 313.
And with that, fans have continued to suggest potential opponents for Poirier in his final outing, with one popular suggestion being Paddy Pimblett.
Paddy ‘The Baddy’ is coming off the back of a career-best win against Bobby Green last July at UFC 304 and has finally cracked the top 15 of the lightweight rankings.
With Poirier still being one of the biggest names in the sport, it could potentially be a way for the promotion to prop the Brit up and grow his name, knowing that ‘The Diamond’ is retiring.
Poirier, though, seemingly has different ideas and has shot down the idea of a fight against Pimblett.
“See, that’s an interesting fight but not for my retirement fight, you know, it’s legends only man,” Poirier said in an interview with Jim Rome.
“Nah (I wouldn’t be willing to fight two more fights), I’m done, man. I have 50-something cage fights. Like I said, I still have something to give, there’s a lot of opportunities and some big fights that can be made but I’ve just been doing it so long and I’m in a place with my other ventures where I want to be home in a regular routine.
“I’ve given this sport a lot and I think I’ve given it enough,” he stated.
Who could Dustin Poirier fight in his retirement fight?
With Poirier’s top choice of Gaethje seemingly not able to happen, fans are wondering who the former interim lightweight champion will end up fighting.
The 36-year-old’s comment of ‘Legends only’ doesn’t leave him with many options, however, one of which could be Jim Miller.
‘A-10’ Miller continues to fight near the top of the lightweight division, continuing to hold several records at 155lbs.
The two fought back in 2017 when Poirier picked up a majority decision so there is already history between the two legendary lightweights.