Islam Makhachev's Unbeaten Streak Continues

Makhachev Defeats Poirier by Submission at UFC 302

Makhachev Retains Lightweight Title with Fifth-Round Submission

Islam Makhachev retained his UFC lightweight title with a fifth-round submission victory over Dustin Poirier in the main event of UFC 302 on Saturday night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Makhachev, who extended his winning streak to 14 fights with the victory, secured the submission with a D'Arce choke at the 2:42 mark of the fifth round. The win marked Makhachev's third successful title defense and solidified his status as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC.

Poirier, a former interim lightweight champion, was making his first appearance in the Octagon since losing to Charles Oliveira in December 2021. He gave Makhachev a tough challenge, but was ultimately unable to overcome the Russian's relentless grappling and ground game.

The victory was a major statement for Makhachev, who has now established himself as one of the most dominant champions in the UFC. It also sets up a potential future matchup with Oliveira, who is expected to defend his lightweight title against Beneil Dariush later this year.