Dustin Poirier, born on January 19, 1989, in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a renowned mixed martial artist competing in the UFC's lightweight division (155 lbs). Known as ‘The Diamond,’ Poirier has established himself as a top contender with a career characterized by elite skills and sheer grit.
Poirier's journey into MMA began with boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in his hometown. After a successful amateur career, he turned professional and joined the World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) before its merger with the UFC. His UFC debut came in 2011, where he quickly made a name for himself in the featherweight division before moving up to lightweight.
Throughout his career, Poirier has faced some of the sport's biggest names, including Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Max Holloway. Notably, he won the interim UFC Lightweight Championship by defeating Holloway in 2019. His trilogy with McGregor is particularly famous, with Poirier securing two victories over the Irish superstar in 2021.
Beyond the octagon, Poirier is known for his philanthropy. He and his wife, Jolie, founded The Good Fight Foundation, which supports various charitable causes. The Louisiana native’s dedication to both his sport and community has earned him widespread respect and admiration among peers and MMA fans.
Dustin Poirier Championship Won
Although Dustin Poirier has never been an undisputed champion in the UFC, he once held the interim UFC Lightweight Championship. Poirier won this belt on April 13, 2019, by defeating Max Holloway at UFC 236.
In the first round, Poirier's powerful strikes hurt Holloway, who managed to fight back but clearly lost the round. The second round saw both fighters exchanging blows, with Poirier landing the more significant shots. Holloway gained momentum in the third, pressuring Poirier and landing effective strikes.
The fourth round was competitive, with Holloway's volume and Poirier's counters. In the final round, both fighters continued to exchange heavily, but Poirier's accuracy and power edged out Holloway. Poirier won by unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 49-46).
Who did Poirier lose his title to?
After winning the interim title at UFC 236, Poirier then faced Khabib Nurmagomedov for the undisputed UFC Lightweight Championship at UFC 242 on September 7, 2019, but lost via third-round submission. This fight showcased Poirier's determination, though he was ultimately out-grappled by Nurmagomedov in the third round.
Poirier once again found himself as the top contender and challenged Charles Oliveira for the undisputed lightweight title at UFC 269 on December 11, 2021. Unfortunately for Poirier, he would fall short once again as Oliveira submitted him via a rear-naked choke in the third round.
Related: How many times has Poirier lost?
FAQs on Dustin Poirier ever being Champion
A. Yes, he won the interim lightweight title.
A. Poirier defeated Max Holloway for the interim lightweight title.
A. He is 35 years old.
A. He stands 5 feet 9 inches tall.
A. No, Poirier has suffered 8 losses in his professional career.
