The anticipation is building for the highly-anticipated rematch between Dustin "The Diamond" Poirier and Justin "The Highlight" Gaethje at UFC 291.
The anticipation is building for the highly-anticipated rematch between Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier and Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje at UFC 291. They will vie for the “BMF” title. The Delta Center in Salt Lake City is set to host this epic showdown, with fans expecting fireworks in the Octagon. Michael Chandler is a seasoned fighter who has faced both Poirier and Gaethje. He shares his insights on the upcoming clash and why he believes Gaethje will come out victorious this time.
In their previous encounter in 2018, Poirier and Gaethje engaged in a Fight of the Year war. In which Poirier ultimately secured a Round 4 TKO victory. However, Chandler, who has recently experienced setbacks against both fighters believes Gaethje has evolved into a more composed and technical version of himself making him a formidable opponent for Poirier.
Chandler shares his prediction on his YouTube channel. Highlighting Gaethje’s improved fighting style. “My prediction is Justin Gaethje wins via decision similar to what we saw in him vs. Tony Ferguson,” Chandler says. “Obviously, we know he finished Tony Ferguson late in the fight and don’t think he finishes Poirier, but I do think he beats him with output. I think he beats him by not being taken down. I think he beats him by those leg kicks.”
Gaethje’s recent performance against Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286 demonstrated a more composed and technical approach. Chandler believes that this newfound composure will play a pivotal role in the rematch against Poirier. He expects Gaethje to maintain a high output throughout the fight showcasing his improved skills and strategic prowess.
One key aspect of Gaethje’s game that Chandler emphasizes is his takedown defense. Gaethje’s ability to prevent takedowns and keep the fight standing will be crucial in neutralizing Poirier’s grappling strengths. Chandler sees Gaethje’s defensive grappling as a significant factor in his quest for redemption.
Another weapon in Gaethje’s arsenal that Chandler highlights is his vicious leg kicks. Gaethje is known for his punishing leg kicks. It has been instrumental in wearing down his opponents and limiting their movement. Chandler believes that these leg kicks will be an essential tool for Gaethje to control the pace and distance of the fight.
While Chandler acknowledges Poirier’s power he also marvels at Gaethje’s speed advantage. “Justin Gaethje has the speed advantage,” Chandler says. “He kind of just throws those things as fast as he can, hopes they land, and when they do land, they hurt.”
Chandler has experienced firsthand the ferocity of Poirier’s punches. “As far as power, people ask me, ‘Who’s the hardest puncher that you’ve ever been hit by?’ Dustin Poirier,” Chandler admits. “Dustin Poirier broke my nose in the fight. Every single shot was a thud.”
Despite Poirier’s powerful strikes, Chandler notes that Gaethje’s punches may not produce the same thudding impact but make up for it with speed and precision.
For more UFC news and updates
Read: UFC Fight Night 224 results: Tom Aspinall’s stunning TKO victory
Read: UFC Fight Night 224: Preview, Prediction, Where to Watch, Venue, and Tickets
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