Dustin Poirier's Take: Who's Stronger - Khabib or Makhachev? (2026)

In the world of MMA, a heated debate has emerged: who reigns supreme between two legendary fighters? Dustin Poirier, a seasoned veteran, has now faced the formidable duo of Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov, and his verdict is in.

The Battle of the Titans:

Poirier, a fighter with an impressive resume, stepped into the Octagon with the goal of conquering the lightweight division. However, his journey took a dramatic turn as he encountered the might of Dagestan's finest. After his third attempt at the lightweight title, Poirier opened up about his encounters with these two MMA icons.

A Tale of Two Fighters:

When asked about the comparison, Poirier revealed a fascinating insight. He described the takedowns of Makhachev and Nurmagomedov as distinct, with Makhachev favoring upper-body techniques and clinching, while Nurmagomedov was known for his lower shots. But here's where it gets controversial: Poirier declared that Nurmagomedov was the physically stronger of the two. He praised Makhachev's incredible squeeze but emphasized that Nurmagomedov's strength was more overwhelming.

The Expert's Opinion:

Jack Della Maddalena, a fellow MMA fighter, added fuel to the fire. On a recent podcast, he claimed that Makhachev has improved significantly, particularly in striking, and possesses more weapons than Nurmagomedov. He also suggested that Makhachev's upcoming move to welterweight could showcase his enhanced abilities.

This comparison has sparked intense discussions among fans and experts alike. Is physical strength the ultimate deciding factor, or does technique play a more significant role? And what impact will Makhachev's evolution have on future matchups? The MMA community is buzzing with anticipation, eager to witness the next chapter in this ongoing rivalry.

Dustin Poirier's Take: Who's Stronger - Khabib or Makhachev? (2026)
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