Khabib Nurmagomedov Praises Dustin Poirier After Islam Makhachev's Stunning Victory

A Historic Battle in the Lightweight Championship

Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, continues to cement his status as one of the most dominant fighters in mixed martial arts. In June 2024, at UFC 302, Makhachev defended his lightweight title against one of the toughest opponents of his career – Dustin Poirier. The fight was packed with tension and drama, lasting nearly all five rounds as both fighters showcased top-level technique, mental toughness, and physical strength. Ultimately, Makhachev secured a dramatic submission victory with a D’Arce choke in the final round, a finish that guaranteed his continued reign in the lightweight division.

Respect for a Worthy Opponent

Following the fight, a newly released behind-the-scenes video reveals a heartfelt moment: Khabib Nurmagomedov, former champion and a key figure in Makhachev’s development, approaches Dustin Poirier to express deep respect. Khabib refers to Poirier as “big brother” and “a legend in the sport,” thanking him for the pivotal role he played in shaping Makhachev as a fighter. Khabib’s words embody the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect that define the UFC, even after intense and grueling battles. This recognition highlights that Poirier was not just a tough adversary but also an important mentor figure who helped sharpen Makhachev’s skills and prepare him for future challenges.

Moving Beyond Lightweight – A New Challenge at Welterweight

At the end of 2025, Makhachev made a strategic decision to move up to the welterweight division (170 pounds), after a long and impressive reign at lightweight (155 pounds) with a streak of 16 consecutive wins. Stepping into a heavier weight class marks a significant milestone in his career, aimed at expanding his UFC dominance and proving his ability to face bigger, stronger opponents. His next fight, scheduled in Philadelphia, will pit him against Sean Machado Gary, a young fighter with high potential who is considered a serious threat to the championship.

Moving up to welterweight is no easy feat – this division demands adjustments in tactics, physical conditioning, and speed. However, Makhachev enters this new chapter with confidence, having firmly established himself as a lightweight champion and one of the world’s leading fighters. This positions him as a prime candidate to hold two titles simultaneously, a rare and prestigious achievement in UFC history.

The Fight’s Significance and Its Message to the UFC World

The bout against Dustin Poirier marked a pivotal turning point in Makhachev’s career, both professionally and mentally. Defeating a top-tier fighter like Poirier proved Makhachev’s ability to handle immense pressure and deliver peak performance under challenging conditions. Khabib’s acknowledgment of Poirier’s influence on Makhachev reinforces the idea that UFC fighting is not only a physical contest but also an ongoing learning journey built on mutual respect and appreciation among fighters.

For fans in Israel and worldwide, this fight showcased the incredible level of competition in the UFC and the excitement each of Makhachev’s appearances brings to the octagon. His career trajectory promises to remain captivating as he seeks to broaden his horizons and take on new opponents at welterweight. His upcoming achievements and challenges will continue to engage the MMA community and inspire young fighters around the globe.