Dustin Poirier chose to retire at the right moment, avoiding the fate of fighters like Anderson Silva who extended their careers too long. At 36 years old, Poirier recognized the importance of stepping away before facing younger competitors who could inflict significant damage. This thoughtful move highlights the challenges fighters face as they age and the toll injuries take over time.
Insight from a Fellow Fighter on Poirier’s Retirement Timing
Fellow fighter Jotko explained that Poirier has been involved in the sport for many years and has endured numerous injuries. He stated,
“Yeah, Dustin Poirier is a long, long time with the sport, you know. Of course like we fighters, like anyone, he have a lot of injuries, you know. He do this, he [is] like 35 years old [36 years old as of January 19th], and I think it’s the perfect moment for him to finish career. So he don’t; like he say, he don’t want to get beat up from some new people, you know.”
—Jotko, Fighter
Jotko also pointed out that many fighters such as Johny Hendricks and Anderson Silva faced harsh defeats near the end of their careers, stating,
“The new generation people come there, fresh with less miles, and just beat him up for the end of the career. This is no good. You know, like a couple people do this. Like Johny Hendricks, Anderson Silva, you know, a lot of people get smashed before they finish their career. I think this was the perfect [thing] for Dustin, you know, perfect decision.”
—Jotko, Fighter
Reflections on Poirier’s Last Fight and His Legacy
Those close to Poirier recalled the energy he displayed ahead of his last fight. One said,
“We was hanging out with Dustin for this fight. He was here in Florida for our camp. He was so excited for this fight. He do everything, what he can do the best. I know the rest is what it is, but fight was good. Was like three or four knockdown there. So I think [that] was a good war for the end of his career. He still is good, you know, even if you don’t win this fight, you know.”
—Unattributed
Poirier’s decision emphasizes the significance of knowing when to retire, preserving his health and legacy rather than risking a decline from fresh, less worn opponents. His career choice will likely serve as a prudent example for fighters contemplating their own futures.