Grapplers Graveyard has UFC 302 results for the Makhachev vs. Poirier fight card from last night.
In the main event, UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev put his belt on the line against Dustin Poirier. Makhachev had won 13 straight fights, while Poirier had won three of his past contests.
Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland looked to bounce back after losing the title when he faced Paulo Costa in the co-main event.
Check out the UFC 302 results below.
Main Event: Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier
The main event of UFC 302 was a big fight between Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier. Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion, came into the fight with a 13-fight winning streak. Poirier, known for his striking, had won three of his last fights. Makhachev walked away with the victory at the end.
Fight Breakdown
Makhachev, known for his grappling, tried to take the fight to the ground. Poirier used his striking to keep the fight standing. In the first round, Makhachev got a takedown, but Poirier got back up and landed some good punches.
As the fight went on, Makhachev’s grappling became clear. He controlled the fight, getting multiple takedowns and staying on top. Poirier showed a lot of heart, defending against Makhachev’s submissions and landing strong punches when he could.
The Turning Point
The turning point came in the fifth round when Makhachev got a deep D’arce choke. Poirier tried to escape, but Makhachev’s technique was too strong. Poirier had to tap out at 2:42 of Round 5. With this win, Makhachev extended his winning streak to 14 and stayed the UFC lightweight champion.
Co-Main Event: Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa
In the co-main event, former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland fought Paulo Costa. Strickland wanted to come back strong after losing his title.
Fight Breakdown
The fight started with both fighters throwing heavy punches. Strickland used his jab and footwork to keep Costa away. All fight, it looked like Strickland was truly in control of everything. I noticed that Strickland does a world-class job of wearing people down and it showed in this fight.
Costa tried to get close and land his powerful punches but nothing landed that stunned Stickland. The first round was a close battle, with both fighters having their moments.
As the fight went on, Strickland’s striking and defense stood out. He countered Costa’s attacks and landed good combinations. Costa, known for his knockout power, couldn’t find his rhythm and didn’t land many big punches.
The Decision
After three rounds, the fight went to the judges. Strickland’s better striking and defense earned him a unanimous decision win with scores of 49-46, 50-45, and 49-46. This victory was a big comeback for Strickland and put him back in the title race.
Conclusion
UFC 302 was an unforgettable night of fights. Islam Makhachev defended his lightweight title against Dustin Poirier, and Sean Strickland made a successful comeback against Paulo Costa. The undercard had rising stars and veteran performances, giving fans a night full of excitement.
As the dust settles, the MMA world looks forward to the next chapter for these fighters. UFC 302 will be remembered as a night of high-stakes battles, showing the skill and heart of the athletes who stepped into the octagon.