Dustin Poirier excited by idea of boxing foray, but existing UFC paperwork act as potential roadblock: "I still have seven fights left on my contract"

Dustin Poirier is much more excited at the idea of boxing than returning to the UFC but does not see it as a realistic possibility. After 40 professional MMA fights, Poirier has stated that he finds it difficult to be motivated for future cage fights but does not believe that boxing is a current option for him.

On The MMA Hour on June 10, the lightweight spoke with host Ariel Helwani on his current thoughts of retirement, saying that he is leaning towards hanging up the gloves but is still unsure. The prospect of boxing, however, "excites" the veteran, though he does not think the opportunity would present itself.

Poirier said:

"I would love to [box]. That would be fun. That excites me. But I still have seven fights on my contract with the UFC... I don't know [if they would let me box]."

Check out Dustin Poirier's comments below:

Poirier is a popular name often brought up amongst fans when debating who the best boxer in the UFC is due to his knockout power and keen defensive striking skills. As of 2024, 'The Diamond' is tied with Drew Dober for the most knockouts in UFC lightweight history with nine.

Should Poirier be allowed to box by the UFC, he would have viable options on the table. His friend and former teammate, Jorge Masvidal, is the current owner of Gamebred Boxing, a promotion that has seen several former UFC fighters compete in the past, including current bantamweight Jose Aldo.

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Has Dustin Poirier competed in boxing before?

Fans who have been around the UFC for a while are familiar with the skills and accolades of former interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier. Throughout his successful career, Poirier has continuously exemplified elite striking in the cage, clearly possessing high-level boxing skills.

However, for as technical as his boxing skills are as an MMA fighter, 'The Diamond' has never fought in the ring as a professional. The 35-year-old has constantly teased a future in the sport but has also stated that he has been intent on becoming an MMA world champion.

After losing to Islam Makhachev at UFC 302, Poirier no longer believes he can achieve undisputed UFC gold after three failed attempts. The idea of boxing now interests him more than ever, but the fan favorite does not see a path to the ring as a logistical option even if he permanently retires from MMA.