Dustin Poirier recently recounted an unusual experience involving his USADA drug test while purchasing an SUV. The incident happened when representatives from USADA arrived to collect his samples in the middle of the vehicle buying process, forcing him to provide blood and urine samples at a car dealership.
Poirier is preparing to conclude his MMA career this Saturday at UFC 318, where he will face off against longtime rival Max Holloway in a trilogy bout for the BMF belt. The event is set to take place in front of Poirier’s home crowd at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Reflecting on the incident in an interview with Shak MMA, Poirier detailed the awkward timing of the drug test collection. The USADA officials had initially contacted him at his house, warning that failure to meet them within an hour would count as a missed test. Since Poirier was in the middle of paperwork when the inspectors arrived, they ended up coming to the dealership instead to complete the sample collection.
”Actually, one time I was buying a vehicle. I was at the dealership signing paperwork. They called me, they were at my gate here at my house. They were like, ‘Well, if you can’t make it back to your house to meet me in the next hour, it counts as a failed test.’ I’m like, ‘I can’t leave now, I’m in the middle of paperwork.’ They drove to the dealership. I did blood and urine at the car dealership in the office.”
Poirier’s Quest for the BMF Title and Career Highlights
Known as “The Diamond,” Dustin Poirier is attempting to secure the BMF title for the second time. He previously challenged Justin Gaethje, the former champion, at UFC 291 last year but was defeated by knockout in the second round. Throughout his career, Poirier has also contended three times for the UFC lightweight title but has yet to capture the championship belt.
Most recently, Poirier faced Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 for the undisputed lightweight championship. Despite pushing hard, Poirier was submitted in the final round by Makhachev, extending his run without a title.
Former Champion Charles Oliveira Supports Poirier’s Victory Over Holloway
The upcoming UFC 318 fight between Poirier and Max Holloway has generated considerable buzz, including predictions from former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira. Having competed against both fighters, Oliveira commented on their styles and gave his outlook on the trilogy fight.
”I think Holloway is a guy who moves a lot, a guy who catches. But man, Dustin Poirier is a guy that I have huge respect for. For me, of all of the guys I’ve fought, he’s the one with the sharpest boxing. He fights more consciously; he has a very heavy hand. He knows how to play the game. He will fight at home practically, so I think Poirier wins.”
Oliveira emphasized Poirier’s tactical approach and strong boxing skills, suggesting that competing in front of his home audience at the Smoothie King Center could provide a significant advantage in this critical match.
Significance of the Fight and Poirier’s Career Outlook
This bout carries immense weight for Poirier, as it represents the final chapter of his mixed martial arts career while offering one last chance to claim the BMF belt. Fighting Max Holloway, a familiar adversary, in New Orleans adds further significance, as the crowd support may boost Poirier’s performance. Beyond personal legacy, this fight could impact the stature of the BMF title and reverberate through the lightweight division.
With USADA’s stringent testing policies continuing to play a role in fighters’ preparations, Poirier’s anecdote about the dealership drug test underlines the unique challenges athletes face outside the octagon. UFC fans will eagerly watch as Poirier attempts to secure a memorable victory in front of his home crowd this Saturday.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dustin Poirier a millionaire?
A. By 2025, Poirier’s wealth is expected to reach $10 million. He has cleverly managed his money, securing big deals with brands like Venum. Additionally, through his “The Good Fight Foundation,” he contributes to helping underprivileged communities.