Paddy Pimblett isn’t quite sure what to make of Dustin Poirier’s choice to call it quits.
Poirier is planning to step into the ring one last time this summer in his beloved Louisiana before retiring. When asked about a match-up with Pimblett, Poirier mentioned he’s now looking to face only legendary fighters.
Pimblett (22-3 MMA, 6-0 UFC), who is gearing up to face Michael Chandler on April 12 at UFC 314’s co-main event in Miami, broadcast on ESPN+ pay-per-view, ESPN/Disney+, and ESPN+, believes Poirier (30-8 MMA, 22-7 UFC) still has a lot left to offer in the octagon.
“He said something about me recently, didn’t he? Mentioned he’s only interested in legendary bouts and seems to think Chandler’s going to beat me,” Pimblett shared with ESPN Deportes. “I reckon he should have more than just one fight left in him. He really shone in his last appearance. It’s baffling to think he’d retire when he’s still on top of his game, but hey, maybe he’s just being silly. Personally, I believe I could take on Dustin Poirier, and I’d welcome that fight.”
On the flip side, Chandler (23-9 MMA, 2-4 UFC) recently suffered a unanimous decision defeat to Charles Oliveira at UFC 309 in November. That victory for Oliveira nudged him back into title contention, so Pimblett is hopeful that triumphing over Chandler might do the same for him.
“Charles took down Chandler and got a shot at the title,” said Pimblett. “If beating Chandler can secure a title shot for Charles, then I should get one too when I take him down.”
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