Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier Prediction & Betting Tips - UFC n°302

Prediction published on 30/05/2024, 07:44  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 31/05/2024 at 09:18 in MMA Predictions

The main event at UFC 302 will be a clash for the UFC lightweight championship between Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier set to get underway on June 1. The defending champion Makhachev is 25-1-0, while the challenger Poirier holds a record 30-8-0, 1NC. 

Makhachev is the top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC and has successfully defended his lightweight championship twice since defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 in October 2022. Standing at 5'10" with a 70" reach, Makhachev is a formidable southpaw. He possesses striking power and speed comparable to the best in the UFC, combined with the relentless ground pressure and tenacity of his cousin and mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov. During his first year at the top of the division, Makhachev fought Alexander Volkanovski twice. In their initial bout, he outperformed and outlasted the former featherweight champion, and in their second encounter, he secured the number one pound-for-pound ranking by defeating Volkanovski in the first round. Notable statistics include a 13-fight win streak (tied for 3rd all-time), a 61.2% takedown accuracy (4th all-time among lightweights), and 1.24 strikes absorbed per minute (tied for 1st all-time).

Meanwhile, at 35 years old and with 40 professional MMA fights under his belt, this is likely Poirier's last chance at undisputed gold. This marks the third time Poirier will challenge for the UFC’s undisputed lightweight title, following unsuccessful attempts against Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira. Known as "The Diamond," Poirier is up against Makhachev, seeking to inflict just the second loss of Makhachev's career. He comes to Newark fresh off a second-round stoppage victory over Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 299, a win that helped him rebound from his knockout loss to Justin Gaethje last summer and secure another shot at the title. Poirier is renowned for his knockout power, grit, and toughness, which are as crucial to his success as his striking prowess and timing. Although primarily a boxer, he also delivers powerful kicks to the body and legs. The American boasts 11 KO/TKO wins (tied for 3rd all-time), lands 6.03 strikes per minute (10th all-time among lightweights), and has a 63% takedown defense rate.