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Dustin Poirier quips he “hopes the worst” for Conor McGregor ahead of the Irishman’s UFC comeback after his 2021 leg break, reigniting one of MMA’s chilliest rivalries.
Rekindling a bitter trilogy
The animosity between Poirier and McGregor stretches back to UFC 178 in 2014, when McGregor knocked Poirier out in 106 seconds. Seven years later at UFC 257, Poirier claimed revenge with a first-round knockout in Abu Dhabi. Their trilogy climaxed at UFC 264, where Poirier won again after McGregor suffered a horrific broken leg checking a kick.
Poirier’s playful yet pointed jab
Speaking on a podcast alongside Jorge Masvidal, Din Thomas and former champion Chris Weidman, Poirier was asked whether he wished McGregor well ahead of his octagon comeback. After Weidman offered a sincere “hoping for the best” sentiment, Poirier shot back with a grin: “Not me, I hope the worst for him.” Although he later claimed he was “just kidding”, the remark underscores the lingering bitterness that survives years of back-and-forth and social-media barbs.
What’s next for McGregor’s comeback?
McGregor hasn’t fought since that leg break at UFC 264 in July 2021, and UFC president Dana White has teased a return later this year. Potential opponents include lightweight contenders or a move back to welterweight, but concrete plans are yet to be confirmed. With Poirier’s barb keeping the spotlight firmly on Conor, fans are speculating whether McGregor will seek a rematch or pursue new rivalries in the octagon.
Despite a brief attempt at reconciliation—a supportive Instagram comment McGregor left after Poirier’s wife welcomed their daughter earlier this year—the feud remains unresolved. As McGregor hones his recovery, Poirier’s remarks are a reminder that, for these two, the bad blood is far from cooled.
FAQ
When is Conor McGregor’s next UFC fight?
No official date has been announced. UFC president Dana White has hinted at a 2026 return, but an opponent and event are still to be confirmed.
What is Dustin Poirier’s head-to-head record with Conor McGregor?
Poirier leads the trilogy 2-1, losing the first bout at UFC 178 before winning at UFC 257 and UFC 264.
Will McGregor and Poirier ever fight again?
There’s no indication of a fourth meeting. Both fighters have moved on—McGregor recovering from injury and Poirier exploring other match-ups.
What happened at UFC 264 between McGregor and Poirier?
At UFC 264, Poirier won via doctor’s stoppage after McGregor suffered a broken tibia and fibula while checking a leg kick in the first round.
