Dustin Poirier Says Justin Gaethje Should Vacate the Belt and Fight Conor McGregor for His Final Fight

Dustin Poirier is pitching a dream farewell matchup for his longtime rival, suggesting Justin Gaethje walk away from the lightweight title altogether to make it happen.

“That’s the one, Conor has one more left, that’s the one,” Poirier said.

Where Justin Gaethje Stands on Vacating or Defending

Justin Gaethje hasn’t made a final call on whether he’ll defend the belt or step away from it. He’s currently sidelined while recovering from hand and knee injuries sustained in his win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, and has said publicly he has no immediate plans to retire, even as he turns 38 in November. His manager’s comments have hinted he may not be done after all, suggesting retirement isn’t the foregone conclusion some assumed once he captured the title.

Conor McGregor’s Injury, Surgery, and Contract Status

Conor McGregor is 38 years old and hasn’t fought since a first-round TKO loss to Max Holloway at UFC 329 in July, a fight that lasted just 69 seconds before he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus. He’s since undergone surgery and has targeted a return during International Fight Week in 2027. That prospective fight also carries extra weight, as it’s reportedly the final bout remaining on his current UFC contract.

About The Author

Chynelle Dirksz

A sports enthusiast turned writer, I bring a multi-sport perspective to my coverage. From playing basketball, handball, and throwball to competing as an athlete, sport has always been at the core of who I am, and writing became the natural way to channel that passion.

At To The Lane And Back, I cover Tottenham Hotspur, focusing on transfers, academy developments, and everything in between. I also write about UFC and MMA for UFCDailyNews.com, a site I designed, covering breaking news, fight analysis, and the latest developments in combat sports.

When I’m not writing, I’m probably being outsmarted by my two Labradors.

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