Retired lightweight Dustin Poirier revealed he's open to coming out of retirement for a fight against Nate Diaz. Poirier specified this matchup as the only scenario that would bring him back to competition. The two were previously linked for UFC 230 in 2018 but it never materialized. This news revives interest in a superfight outside UFC, potentially drawing massive fan attention. Diaz's boxing ventures make logistics tricky, but Poirier's stance keeps the door open for negotiations.
Retired UFC lightweight Dustin Poirier has indicated he would be willing to return to competition for one specific fight — a matchup against Nate Diaz — though the bout remains unconfirmed and no official negotiations have been announced.
Poirier, 37, walked away from the sport carrying a professional record of 30 wins and 10 losses. Fighting out of American Top Team and competing as a southpaw at five-foot-nine with a 72-inch reach, "The Diamond" was one of the most prolific strikers in the lightweight division, averaging 5.24 significant strikes landed per minute at 50 percent accuracy across his career. He also showed well-rounded versatility, averaging 1.15 takedowns and 1.2 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Diaz, now 41, carries a record of 22-13 and represents a familiar name to casual and hardcore fans alike. The Stockton native stands six feet tall with a 76-inch reach and trains under Cesar Gracie. A fellow southpaw, Diaz averaged 4.57 significant strikes per minute at 45 percent accuracy, while also contributing on the ground with 1.05 takedowns and 1.3 submission attempts per 15 minutes. His recent boxing activity adds a layer of logistical complexity to any potential MMA crossover.
The two fighters were previously linked for a meeting at UFC 230 in 2018, but that contest never came together. Poirier's latest comments reignite interest in a fight that has long intrigued fans.
Why it matters
- Poirier has named this as the only fight capable of drawing him out of retirement, making Diaz the singular obstacle or opportunity
- A potential matchup outside the UFC adds promotional uncertainty but also significant commercial appeal
- Both men are southpaw grapplers with high striking output, pointing toward a compelling, fan-friendly style clash
- Diaz's boxing commitments introduce scheduling and contractual complications that could complicate any deal
