5 best southpaws in the UFC today

#2 - Dustin Poirier

Dustin Poirier strikes Conor McGregor from his southpaw stance

Dustin Poirier is increasingly being considered one of the best boxers in the UFC, and much of the credit goes to his southpaw stance and how he uses it. 'The Diamond' uses a left cross to shift into an orthodox stance to close the distance on his opponents and set up power shots.

Often, earlier in his MMA career, Dustin Poirier would throw a loaded right hook and end up in an orthodox stance. But now, he is doing this intentionally and to great effect.

Stunner on Fight Island! Dustin Poirier scores a TKO over Conor McGregor. #UFC257 pic.twitter.com/gqxGIYw0Pa

— Stadium (@Stadium) January 24, 2021

If an opponent backs up from Poirier's boxing range, 'The Diamond' uses his right hook to switch to an orthodox stance. Upon closing the distance, he can switch back to southpaw easily and land punishing boxing combinations.

Ahead of his fight in 2018, Justin Gaethje spoke about going against Dustin Poirier and said facing the southpaw was like "staring down a barrel of a gun."

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#1 - Conor McGregor

Conor McGregor thrashes Donald Cerrone

Conor McGregor is considered one of the best strikers in the sport. On our list of the best UFC southpaws, he makes it to the top. While being a southpaw, McGregor possesses the ability to switch stances mid-fight. The 'Notorious' is also popular for his left punch, which is the main weapon in every southpaw's arsenal.

Conor McGregor displayed the beauty and mystique of his southpaw stance by KO'ing Jose Aldo in 13 seconds at UFC 194. The Irishman's left hand was what stripped the former UFC featherweight champion of his title.

Conor McGregor's southpaw stance is also complimented by his excellent distance management skills. In terms of counter striking, the former UFC double-champ is one of the best in MMA. He has used his left hook or upper-cut to hurt many opponents in his career, especially while using it as a counter. The 'slip-and-counter' method has been used by him against many, like Marcus Brimage and Eddie Alvarez.

Don’t forget highest % ratio of KO’s, as well as fastest KO’s, both inside and outside the UFC. Also most titles won. Also most knockouts in most divisions. Also, I’m just the fucking GOAT.Get over it baby, and get with it!It’s good on this side!Come chill with the Billi GOAT! https://t.co/ZSo7t60rrs

— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) May 28, 2020

What makes Conor McGregor stand out from other UFC southpaws is that he takes a more sideways posture, resembling a karate stance. Departing from the usual squared-up stance, the 'Notorious' has proven to be one of the most exciting UFC southpaws to watch.

The karate stance has enabled him to stay outside the reach of even taller opponents. While gaging distance by extending his right hand, he can also create space with an occasional left front kick. The stance has also helped McGregor generate more power when he decides to strike with his left hand, making it all the more dangerous.