theScore
unexpected rematch
Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier agreed to run it back six years after fighting in 2014. Poirier hardly seemed to be in the McGregor sweepstakes, but talks of a charity bout evolved into the UFC booking the rematch.
Handout / Getty
a different era
On paper, the rematch was much different than the first bout: It was at lightweight, McGregor and Poirier had both gained a ton of experience during UFC title reigns, and there was no bad blood.
Jeff Bottari / Getty
stunner on fight island 😱
The rematch itself was also much different.
That was a masterpiece from The Diamond Dustin Poirier to knockout Conor McGregor at UFC 257. He is the first to finish Conor by a knockout. First knockout loss for Conor in his MMA career. #UFC257
Dustin Poirier
By the numbers
Handout / Getty
The goal was to be technical and to pick my shots, not brawl. ... I had him hurt, so I went a little crazy.
Poirier discussing upset win vs. McGregor
(UFC)
Jeff Bottari / Getty
story of the fight
McGregor won the first round on all three judges' scorecards, but Poirier's calf kicks took a toll on the former two-division champion toward the end of the bout.
Chris Unger / Getty
That low calf kick was very good. The leg was dead. ... It's a tough one to swallow.
McGregor reacting to TKO loss vs. Poirier
(UFC)
Chris Unger / Getty
title shot next?
This was a career-defining victory for Poirier, who was in prime position for a shot at the soon-to-be-vacant lightweight title - if that's what he wanted.
Chris Unger / Getty
series tied 1-1 🤔
McGregor had other plans, though. He told Poirier backstage they'd "do it again," and Poirier also appeared interested in settling the score in a high-stakes trilogy bout.
Jeff Bottari / Getty