Dustin Poirier reflected on his memorable Dustin Poirier UFC 257 win over Conor McGregor, sharing how defeating the celebrated Irishman in 2021 at Etihad Stadium, Abu Dhabi, marked a pivotal moment in his career. Poirier emphasized the personal significance of overcoming McGregor, long considered one of the UFC’s biggest stars, especially given their history and the circumstances surrounding the event.

Poirier’s Standout Performance at UFC 257

The highly anticipated rematch between Poirier and McGregor at UFC 257 took place in early 2021, with the two meeting inside the octagon at Etihad Stadium. As the bout progressed into the second round, Poirier showed notable composure, pressing McGregor with a combination of pressure against the cage and a sharp display of boxing. Ultimately, Poirier landed a decisive right hand that floored McGregor, prompting referee Herb Dean to call an end to the fight. This win not only avenged a previous loss but also demonstrated Poirier’s evolution as a fighter on a global stage.

In a candid interview with Megan Olivi on ESPN MMA’s YouTube channel, Poirier recounted the emotional relief and sense of fulfillment that accompanied his victory:

”I mean, beating Conor [McGregor] in Abu Dhabi after seven years of him talking and posting pictures of when he knocked me out and all that just that it felt right. It felt good and especially at the time we were at quarantining and all the craziness going on. It just felt like it was meant to be. When they called me with that fight, I was I knew I was going to win. I didn’t care what he did or what he said or whoever was across from me under those lights that night. I was going to get my hand raised.”

—Dustin Poirier, Former Interim UFC Champion

What Followed After UFC 257

The rivalry between Poirier and McGregor continued later that same year when they met for a trilogy fight at UFC 264. Unfortunately for McGregor, the bout ended abruptly in the first round due to a leg injury. For Poirier, this set up an upcoming high-profile challenge: he is now scheduled to compete against Max Holloway in a BMF title fight at UFC 318, which will take place on July 19 in Louisiana, offering him the opportunity to make his final walk to the octagon in front of his home crowd.

Justin Gaethje Acknowledges Poirier’s Knockout

During the UFC 269 weigh-in show in 2021, fellow UFC fighter Justin Gaethje weighed in on Poirier’s performance, naming his knockout win over McGregor as the standout finish of that year. Gaethje also commented directly on McGregor and the aftermath of the fight:

“I am going with Poirier vs. McGregor [2] because I can’t tend to be petty and he [Conor] said he did not go to sleep [at UFC 257]. So let us watch it closer… That was a beautiful night. Yeah, he went to sleep. Night, night! Honestly, I like the one in which he broke his leg [at UFC 264] better. But here we go”

—Justin Gaethje, UFC Lightweight Contender

Poirier’s Lasting Legacy from the UFC 257 Victory

Poirier’s triumph at UFC 257 has become a defining milestone in his fighting career, highlighting his resilience and growth as a mixed martial artist. The bout against McGregor stands out not just for the result, but for its timing amid a global pandemic and the relentless anticipation surrounding it. As he gears up for what may be his last fight against Max Holloway at UFC 318, Poirier’s win over McGregor continues to resonate with fans, attracting praise from opponents and solidifying his reputation as one of the most respected figures in the sport.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Dustin Poirier a millionaire?

A. Poirier’s net worth in 2025 is thought to be around $10 million. He has earned money from sponsorship deals with brands such as Venum. Poirier also helps others through his charity called “The Good Fight Foundation,” which supports people in need.

Q. Is Dustin Poirier a nice guy?

A. Dustin Poirier is known as one of the kindest people in mixed martial arts. He is a caring husband, a devoted father, and works hard to help people in need near him. But after he defeated Conor McGregor at UFC 264, he acted in a way that was unusual for him.