The battle between Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier headlines UFC 302. This is also a championship bout, with the UFC lightweight belt at stake. The Russian fighter is the reigning title holder and the favorite, but on the other hand, Poirier can’t be underestimated.
Islam Makhachev News
So far, the Russian fighter has had 26 pro bouts, winning all but one, which was his second in the UFC against Adriano Martins when he suffered a KO defeat in the first round. But since, Khabib’s close friend stepped up to put up 13 consecutive victories.
The last two were against Alexander Volkanovski. While the first one was a close call, with him winning via unanimous decision, the second was easy because he KOd Volk, who steped in on short notice and did not have enough time to prepare. Islam is a superior wrestler with incredible cardio, possibly the best in the UFC.
Dustin Poirier News
Poirier is a veteran and one of the biggest faces in the organization. This title clash is sort of a gift for a veteran, one last shot at the belt, which we need to say he probably deserved some time in the past. Following back-to-back wins against Conor, he lost the title battle against Charles Oliveira, then beat Michael Chandler before suffering a devastating KO against Justin Gaethje.
He managed to bounce back at UFC 299 vs. Benoit Saint-Denis, whom Diamond KOd in the second round, showing that he still has enough quality to defeat up-and-coming guys. Poirier is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu but is predominantly a strong hitter. Half of his 30 wins were after a KO.
Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier UFC 302 Betting Tips
We saw Poirier inferior against Khabib when he looked far better physically than now. He had a chance to take out Nurmagomedov back then, yet missed it, losing that one as soon as the Russian put him on the ground. Makhachev is equally strong on the mat and even better in stand up, which is why we pick him to triumph.
Betting Tip: Makhachev wins
Betting Odds: 1.20
Bookmaker: Bets.io
Bets.io
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