‘I don’t need that bad energy’ Dustin Poirier sets out stance on Conor McGregor fourth UFC fight as pair return

Poirier is set for his latest title challenge against 155lbs champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 on June 2, as he looks to finally add the belt to his stack of career achievements.

McGregor suffered a horrific injury in his second consecutive defeat to PoirierCredit: Getty

Naturally irrespective of the potential result, ‘The Diamond’ has been heavily linked with UFC superstar McGregor, who he has fought three times previously including most recently in their trilogy in July 2021.

The looming possibility of a fourth contest continues, but Poirier has insisted the rivalry is very much a part of his past as things stand.

He told ESPN: “I think that ship has sailed. All I want is the UFC lightweight championship.

“I don’t feel the need to fight him again at all. I don’t need that [bad] energy in my life.”

McGregor originally knocked out the American in their opening clash in 2014, and their rematch did not come until seven years later in January 2021.

Poirier exacted his revenge in the same manner in their clash, leaving McGregor on the canvas during their second barnstormer.

Their trilogy clash happened six months later in July that year, and McGregor was stopped as he broke his leg.

A fourth showdown was anticipated for the Irishman’s return, but his comeback was delayed on several occasions which has seen rumours slow.

A fight between Poirier and McGregor appears in doubtCredit: Getty

The 35-year-old is now instead returning against Michael Chandler at 170lbs on June 29, after ballooning in weight during his time away from the octagon.

Having fought both Chandler and McGregor, Poirier has suggested that the former two-weight champion will get the job done inside two rounds.

He said: “I think that if Conor comes back anything he was with his timing and rhythm – but with the injury that he had and this long of a layoff and we are not getting any younger, either.

“If he (McGregor) comes back similar to who he was before he left, I think he stops Michael Chandler.

“If Conor is who he was before the injury and stuff, I think two rounds. I think the fight is over in two rounds.”