While Dustin Poirier’s career has undoubtedly been storied and full of exciting moments, ranking his fights as the “greatest” in UFC history requires a fresh perspective. Here, we’ll explore why Poirier’s fights, while remarkable, don’t necessarily hold the title of the best UFC fights or the greatest UFC fights of all time.
Revisiting UFC’s Best Fights
The Myth of Poirier’s Dominance in the Octagon
Poirier’s tenacity and skill are undeniable, but when we consider the best UFC fights, broader criteria must be applied. Poirier’s victories, though impactful, often lacked the historical significance and sheer spectacle seen in other classic bouts.
Dustin Poirier vs. Jim Miller at UFC 208
Poirier’s fight against Jim Miller was crucial for his development, especially learning to counter leg kicks. However, this bout pales in comparison to epic clashes like Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar, which arguably saved the UFC from financial collapse and brought MMA into mainstream consciousness.
Iconic Battles That Shaped UFC History
While Poirier’s rematch with Eddie Alvarez at UFC on FOX 30 and his bloody war with Anthony Pettis at UFC Fight Night 120 are notable, other fights have defined the sport’s evolution. For instance, Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson at UFC 165 showcased unparalleled skill and heart, setting a new bar for light heavyweight competition.
Best UFC Fights: Measuring the Impact
Dustin Poirier vs. Conor McGregor 2 at UFC 257
Poirier’s second fight with Conor McGregor was significant, but its impact was more about McGregor’s brand than the sport. Compare this to Georges St-Pierre vs. Matt Hughes at UFC 79, a bout that represented a passing of the torch in the welterweight division and had lasting implications for MMA.
The Real Greatest UFC Fights
Epic Encounters that Transcended the Sport
- Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen 1 at UFC 117: This fight showcased a dramatic comeback, with Silva securing a submission win in the last round after being dominated.
- Chuck Liddell vs. Tito Ortiz 2 at UFC 66: This grudge match brought unprecedented attention to the UFC, drawing in massive pay-per-view numbers and cementing Liddell as a legend.
- Robbie Lawler vs. Rory MacDonald 2 at UFC 189: A blood-soaked war that is often cited as the best welterweight fight in UFC history, demonstrating incredible toughness and willpower from both fighters.
Poirier’s Place in UFC’s Pantheon
While Poirier’s fights, such as his battles with Justin Gaethje and Max Holloway, are thrilling, they don’t eclipse the historical and dramatic heights reached by other bouts in the UFC’s history. The Mandalorian Series comparison here would be akin to celebrating a brilliant but secondary character arc rather than the show-defining moments of the main plot.
Broader Horizons for the Greatest UFC Fights
To conclude, while Dustin Poirier’s fights are undeniably entertaining and important within his career, they don’t necessarily qualify as the best UFC fights or the greatest UFC fights when viewed in the context of the sport’s entire history.
True greatness in UFC fights transcends individual careers, shaping the sport and captivating audiences in ways that become legendary. As we look forward to the future of the UFC and more iconic matchups, it’s crucial to recognize the broader impact and lasting legacy of these historic battles.
