Donald Trump lauds "warrior" Dustin Poirier, discusses Islam Makhachev title fight at UFC 302: "He didn't lose that fight"

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has heaped praise on Dustin Poirier, calling him a "warrior" after his spirited performance against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302. Despite losing the lightweight title fight via submission, Poirier's resilience and determination impressed Trump, who believes the Louisiana native "didn't lose that fight."

During an appearance on Theo Von's podcast This Past Weekend, Trump discussed Poirier's performance, expressing admiration for his toughness and fighting spirit:

“Oh, he’s great… He’s a warrior! That last fight he had. Whether you like it or not, he is a warrior.”

He added:

"No, he didn’t lose that fight. He really… Man, his fighting was tough. He was tough and didn’t expect that same fight. But he oftentimes, well he makes people suffer. There’s no question about it. You know, he’s all, he’s a pro. He’s a professional. As that fight went along he just got stronger and stronger. And he was getting pounded, and he was going to be choked out about four different times and he just wouldn’t let it happen.”

Check out Donald Trump's comments on Dustin Poirier below:

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Dustin Poirier confirms list of potential next opponents

Following his recent loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 302, Dustin Poirier has announced that he is not ready to hang up his gloves just yet. Despite initial doubts, the former interim lightweight champion is determined to return to the octagon for at least one more fight. He said during a recent appearance on The Anik & Florian Podcast:

"After the Islam fight, when I got back home I thought, ‘Maybe this is it?’ A few weeks went by, injuries started hurting less and less post-fight, and I was like, ‘I’ve got to do this again.’ I’ve never lost two in a row. I can’t leave this sport on a loss." [H/t: MMA Fighting]

Poirier has said that he is considering several high-profile names for his potential comeback. Among the options are Nate Diaz, Conor McGregor, Alexander Volkanovski, Justin Gaethje, Max Holloway, Charles Oliveira, and Colby Covington.

While Diaz has been a long-standing rival, Poirier expressed skepticism about the possibility of a fight due to the complications involved in negotiating with the UFC. However, he remains open to the idea if it were to materialize.

Poirier emphasized that his decision to return is driven by his desire to leave the sport on a winning note. He acknowledged the risks involved but stated that he is committed to giving it his all if he does decide to fight again.

Check out Dustin Poirer's interview below (1:27:53):