HOUSTON – Dustin Poirier is not losing hope on his dream matchup with Nate Diaz.
The former UFC interim lightweight champion is confident a deal will get done to fight Diaz in 2022 despite seeming to be obstacles keeping the fight from getting booked.
Poirier (28-7 MMA, 20-6 UFC) and Diaz have been jawing at each other on social media for a couple of months and have expressed interest in fighting each other. But according to Diaz, it seems the UFC has been hesitant to book the matchup.
“I want the fight, and he wants it, as well,” Poirier told reporters at UFC 271. “I have no clue (what’s going on). On my side, let’s go. On his side and the UFC’s, they have to get it figured out. But I’m ready to rock.”
Although matchup rumors come and go, Poirier is confident the fight will get done. He said he respects Diaz brothers and is excited to return to the cage.
“I think there’s a good chance it’s going to happen,” Poirier said. “I think summer is a good target if I had to put one on the calendar. I’m not sure, but I have a good feeling is going to happen.
“I’m not sure if I’m going to stay at 170 pounds, but this fight makes sense. I just want to be in fights that mean something to me. Nate is a guy that I grew up watching fight. I respect him and his brother (Nick). I think stylistically, it’s a fun fight for the fans. This is a Fight of the Year-type of fight, and those are the fights I want to be a part of.”
Poirier is coming off a rear-naked choke title loss to champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 269 in December. Prior to the defeat, the 33-year-old had back-to-back stoppage wins over former dual champion Conor McGregor.
