Islam Makhachev reveals most enjoyable fight of career

Islam Makhachev has revealed that his lightweight title defense against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in 2024 stands as the most enjoyable performance of his career, despite his more recent dominant unanimous decision victory over Jack Della Maddalena for his second UFC championship. The 28-1 fighter told Red Corner MMA that the Poirier fight remains his favorite to rewatch, describing the contest as a visceral, street-fight caliber battle.

Poirier (30-10), making his third and final UFC lightweight title bid, provided Makhachev with one of the stiffest tests of his career, showcasing exceptional takedown defense throughout the bout. Makhachev held his own in the striking exchanges against the veteran Diamond before securing the finish in the final round with a brabo choke—a submission that exemplified his willingness to engage aggressively rather than play it safe. "The fight I keep rewatching is the Poirier fight. We fought like it was a street fight," Makhachev said. "And I managed to finish him. I really enjoyed that fight."

The comments underscore how Makhachev values moments where he can showcase both offensive volume and finishing ability against elite opposition, even if a dominant decision over a more recent challenger carries the prestige of a title win. Poirier's legendary status and the competitive nature of their matchup have left a lasting impression on the champion.