Dustin Poirier’s coach Mike Brown recently described how the fight will be in Poirier’s favor.
UFC 242 is set for Abu Dhabi Yas Island in The Arena. The fight will feature undefeated lightweight fan favorite Khabib Nurmagomedov against Dustin Poirier. Nurmagomedov is currently the bookmaker’s favorite fighter due to his undefeated record. Poirier’s coach on the other hand believes that the status of underdog will work for Poirier. Brown further highlighted that Nurmagomedov’s fighting style is not unbeatable and requires experience. This is where Poirier is superior as he has faced similar styled ‘ATT teammates’ who have helped him train.
In an interview with MMA Fighting, Brown elaborated “we’ve seen similar styles in different weight classes like Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren”. This strong wrestling style can be countered. The coach has agreed to Poirier’s decision to rely solely on his own strengths to win. This suggests that Poirier will not be focusing on the same fighting style as Nurmagomedov. Poirier stated that “You be you and make him adjust to your game”. He has already discussed in a previous interview how Nurmagomedov will have more pressure on him to dominate Poirier. As an underdog Poirier described that it is far more motivating to challenge him in Poirier’s position.
