Dustin Poirier has captured the attention of both combat sports enthusiasts and Hollywood fans after revealing that legendary martial artist and actor Chuck Norris recently followed him on Instagram. This unexpected social media connection sparked excitement and widespread reactions among Poirier’s supporters ahead of his final UFC fight.
The former interim lightweight champion shared his enthusiasm on X by posting a short, confident message: “Game over, I win.” This brief statement highlighted how significant Norris’s follow was to Poirier. The news quickly drew numerous comments from fans celebrating the moment as a sign of respect and encouragement from the veteran action star.
Fan Reactions Highlight the Symbolism of Chuck Norris’s Follow
Fans on social media interpreted Chuck Norris’s decision to follow Poirier as more than just a casual gesture. Many saw it as a symbolic nod from a martial arts legend to a fighter recognized for his toughness and dedication. One admirer remarked, “That’s a sign from god!” while another pointed out,
“Chuck Norris follows everybody, but only makes a chosen few public information. Congratulations, you win everything”
Other comments mixed humor with admiration, reflecting Poirier’s fighting spirit:
“I’m afraid if you hit that follow back button you might get round house kicked in the face, let us know what happened when you wake up”
“You deserve this type of honor, Dustin. We must assume Chuck Norris appreciates the type of fighter that goes out there and willing to leave a piece of themselves in that cage”
Poirier’s Upcoming UFC 318 Bout and Career Context
Alongside this social media moment, Poirier is preparing for his final MMA appearance scheduled for July 19 at UFC 318. He will face Max Holloway in a trilogy matchup for the BMF (Baddest Motherf*****) belt at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. This fight is significant not only because it marks the end of Poirier’s career but also because he plans a memorable walkout with fellow Louisiana native and five-time Grammy-winning rapper Lil Wayne.
Last year, Poirier challenged Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 302 but ultimately lost by submission in the final round. Now, he aims to finish his career on a high note with the hometown crowd cheering him on.
Why Poirier Preferred a Gaethje Trilogy Over Fighting Holloway Again
Before UFC finalized his last bout against Max Holloway, Poirier revealed in an interview with Full Violence that he initially wanted a third fight against Justin Gaethje. However, UFC opted for Holloway due to his current status as BMF titleholder. Poirier reflected on the choice:
“I didn’t, I chose [Justin] Gaethje. UFC, they wanted Max for some reason. I don’t know, because he had the ‘BMF’ [Baddest Motherf*****] belt. I don’t know, but they were high on it…I was Max’s first fight in the UFC – his debut fight – and he’s my last fight. It’s just… it’s kinda cool, man.”
Poirier and Gaethje’s rivalry has been intense, with their rematch at UFC 291 ending in a second-round knockout for Poirier after a powerful head kick. This adds another layer of tension to Poirier’s final match, emphasizing the emotional weight of his closing chapter in the sport.
Significance of the Norris Follow and What Lies Ahead for Poirier
Chuck Norris’s public endorsement through social media symbolizes respect from a martial arts and pop culture icon for Poirier’s grit and legacy. This boost comes at a pivotal moment in Poirier’s career, as he brings his journey to an end against a familiar adversary in front of loyal fans in his home state. The upcoming fight at UFC 318 is set to be a defining event for Poirier, offering him a chance to secure his legacy and leave a lasting impression both inside and outside the octagon.