Dominant Performance Earns Russian Fighter Victory

Makhachev Submits Poirier to Retain Lightweight Title

Dominant Performance Earns Russian Fighter Victory

UFC 302: Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier

Newark, NJ - Islam Makhachev retained his lightweight title with a dominant performance against Dustin Poirier in the main event of UFC 302 at the Prudential Center.

The fight started with both fighters exchanging blows in the southpaw stance. However, Makhachev quickly took control of the fight and dominated Poirier in the grappling department. He eventually took Poirier down in the third round and submitted him with a rear-naked choke.

The win was Makhachev's first title defense and extended his winning streak to 11 fights. He is now considered one of the best fighters in the UFC and a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division.

Poirier, who was making his first attempt at the lightweight title, showed incredible toughness and determination throughout the fight. He endured a relentless onslaught from Makhachev and nearly made it to the fifth round. However, Makhachev's grappling skills proved to be too much for him.

In the co-main event, Jared Cannonier defeated Sean Strickland by unanimous decision. Cannonier controlled the fight from the outset and landed the more significant strikes. Strickland was game but was unable to mount a serious offense.

Other notable results from the card include:

• Rafael Fiziev defeats Brad Riddell by unanimous decision
• Bryce Mitchell defeats Edson Barboza by unanimous decision
• Erin Blanchfield defeats Molly McCann by submission (armbar)
• Chris Curtis defeats Rodolfo Vieira by unanimous decision