Dustin Poirier confirmed on July 6, 2026 that he remains under UFC contract and would return for a "right fight," with a fourth showdown against Conor McGregor topping his wish list.
What did Poirier say about a comeback?
In a brief interview, Poirier explained he isn’t planning a full‑time return but would step back into the Octagon for a marquee matchup. He emphasized the contract is still active and that a fight with McGregor would be enough to spark his interest. The veteran’s tone was clear: he wants a high‑stakes bout, not a routine schedule.
Why is a fourth McGregor fight compelling?
The Poirier‑McGregor rivalry sits at 2‑1 for Poirier, with the most recent meeting ending abruptly when McGregor suffered a leg fracture. That unfinished business fuels fan speculation and gives the UFC a ready‑made narrative. A fourth encounter would revive the drama that defined lightweight headlines for years and could generate a massive pay‑per‑view draw.
Which other opponents did Poirier mention?
Beyond McGregor, Poirier named Nate Diaz and Justin Gaethje as potential triggers for a return. He noted his record against Gaethje is split 1‑1, calling the rivalry "needs closure." The Diaz name has lingered in fan forums for years, and Poirier’s nod adds a fresh layer of intrigue for a possible bout.
How does this affect Poirier’s future plans?
By publicly listing these opponents, Poirier signals to UFC matchmakers that he’s willing to negotiate but only for fights that make sense financially and competitively. The statement keeps his brand relevant while allowing him to stay selective, preserving his legacy without committing to a full‑time schedule.
What’s next for the UFC?
The promotion now has a clear cue: if they can line up a McGregor‑Poirier fourth fight, they’ll likely move quickly. No contract has been signed yet, and Poirier stopped short of confirming a timeline. For now, fans can only wait and hope the UFC capitalizes on the lingering storyline.