‘I’d Still Be Fighting’: Dustin Poirier Reveals What Really Made Him Retire
Dustin Poirier reveals that family was the deciding factor in his decision to retire from the UFC at the age of 36.
The Louisiana native retired as one of the greatest MMA fighters in the history of the UFC’s most dangerous division. Poirier has wins over elites including Conor McGregor, Max Holloway, and Michael Chandler.
With 30 wins and 15 knockouts, 'The Diamond' retired at the age of 36, leaving a legacy for his fans to celebrate. He left the sport at the top, leaving fans with questions about his decision. Now he has revealed the reason for his departure.
Dustin Poirier Says He Retired Because of Family
In a conversation with Chris Weidman on the Deep Waters Crew, Poirier agreed he had offers on the table but chose to retire for one reason.
"Well, look, if I didn't have what you just said, I would still be fighting. If I didn't have kids, a wife, people who really care about me, I would still be fighting," Poirier said.
Poirier admitted after retirement that nothing will ever fill the void of what fighting feels like to him. However, he made a selfless decision for the people he loves more than the sport.
Poirier Never Won a UFC Title
Despite an amazing career which is celebrated by many MMA fans, Poirier never won the UFC title. He won the interim lightweight UFC title in 2019.
But lost his first shot at the undisputed gold against Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2019. With three straight wins after the Khabib loss, Poirier earned his second title opportunity in 2021.
Unfortunately, he lost the battle via submission in the third round. Poirier’s last opportunity before retirement was against Islam Makhachev in 2024, which he lost via a fifth-round submission.
Now, despite his retirement, Poirier is still involved in the sport and works as a desk analyst. ‘The Diamond’ might not have captured the undisputed gold, but certainly left behind a legacy that will be talked about for years to come.
