Dustin Poirier likely made his final walk to the Octagon at UFC 302 on June 1 and countless fans and fighters are already beginning to congratulate the fighter on a stellar career. Former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III was amongst the first to give the fan-favorite lightweight his flowers with what could be the end of his days as a fighter.
Through 40 professional fights, Poirier fought for the undisputed UFC lightweight title three times including once as the interim champion. All three occasions resulted in a loss, including his third and likely final attempt against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302.
Robert Griffin III Tweets His Support for Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier has the Heart of a Champion and has given us some unforgettable moments in the octagon. We all hope it’s not the end because he should get to wear that undisputed title around his waist before it’s all said and done. But if it is, THANK YOU. The Diamond will… pic.twitter.com/FH1OdBAmbH
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) June 2, 2024
Just minutes after the conclusion of UFC 302, Dustin Poirier confirmed in his post-fight Octagon interview that he has likely fought for the final time. Moments later, Robert Griffin III sent the former interim champion a thankful and congratulatory message on social media.
Griffin tweeted:
“Dustin Poirier has the heart of a champion and has given us some unforgettable moments in the Octagon. We all hope it’s not the end because he should get to wear that undisputed title around his waist before it’s all said and done. But if it is, THANK YOU. The Diamond will always shine bright. #GirlDad #UFC302”
With his post, Griffin included a photo of Poirier with his daughter, Parker Noelle, on his shoulders. Poirier has made his dedication to his family well known and has his daughter’s name tattooed on the right side of his chest.
Is Dustin Poirier Retired?
The main story entering UFC 302 regarded Dustin Poirier and his final shot to “complete the story” of his life by becoming an undisputed champion. Poirier repeatedly told the media that he was heavily contemplating retirement at the end of the night, with or without the lightweight title on his arm.
After the fight, Poirier did not remove his gloves in the Octagon, a traditional gesture fighters make when retiring in the cage. In his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, ‘The Diamond’ re-stated the statements he made leading into the fight without confirming a decision, saying that he will need to re-evaluate his life but UFC 302 “could have” been his last outing.
Backstage following the event, Poirier confirmed that he wants to speak his decision over with his wife, mother and daughter — the three women he thanked in the Octagon for providing him a support system. While it remains up in the air if Poirier will ever return to the UFC again, it appears probable that the 35-year-old will at minimum take an extended leave from MMA.
Dustin Poirier’s Daughter
In what was promoted to be potentially the final fight of his career at UFC 302, Dustin Poirier had his beloved daughter, Parker Noelle Poirier, in attendance to watch him compete from the front row for the first time in his career. In previous interviews, the 35-year-old stated that having her in the building would give him additional motivation that he has never experienced before.
Poirier’s daughter will be eight years old in August, as ‘The Diamond’ recalls her being born on the day of UFC 202 headlined by the blockbuster rematch between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz. Since her inclusion in his life, Poirier has centered his life around her and his wife, Jolie Poirier.
About the Author
Jaren Kawada is a freelance sports writer from Indianapolis, Indiana by way of Honolulu, Hawaii with a strong passion for MMA and sports betting. Kawada has also written for Sportskeeda MMA, FanSided MMA, and BetSided as a combat sports analyst. Follow on X/Twitter at @jarenkawada1 or on Instagram at @kawadajaren.
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