HeatWave And Heartbreak at UFC 242

Khabib Nurmagomedov is now 28-0 in his MMA carrer, an impressive record in MMA history. Last night at UFC 242 the highly anticipated fight between Khabib and Interim Champion Dustin Poirer finally happened. There was alot of speculation going into this fight and alot more questions then answers. Could Dustin Poirer do what many others have failed before? Could Dustin defeat Khabib and take not only his title but give Khabib his first loss in MMA. These questions where on everyone's mind heading into this fight.

Dustin Poirer had a 5 fight win streak, including winning the Interim LW Championship heading into this fight. Poirer last few fights where some of the best moment in UFC and most memorable fights. Each fight was a War as Poirer went through the likes of Anthony Pettis,Eddie Alvarez,Justin Gaejthe and Max Holloway to finally get the opportunity he has been working 14 years towards, A shot at the Championship. He was more then ready and focused to finally achieve his lifetime goal, only Person standing in his way: Khabib Nurmagomedov. From the opening Bell, Both Khabib and Dustin met in the middle of the Octagon. There was tension in the air, uncertainty of might happen in the fight. It didnt take long for Khabib to charge at Poirer, put him against the cage and land the takedown. Khabib controlled the fight from there, attempting Chokeholds and keeping Poirer at bay. Punches landed on Poirer and Khabib didnt let go of Poirer, applying pressure with his wrestling. It was a tough round and opening for Poirer.

Round Two started off a little differently, as both men exchanged from the start,this is where Poirer landed and stalked Khabib with his Boxing, which I was surprised that Khabib started off that way and wasn't backing down either. Poirer hit Khabib with some shots but it didnt take long for Khabib to get the takedown again and resume his gameplan.

Round Three started off with an impressive outing from Poirer, when Poirer locked in a Guillotine Chokehold on Khabib as he went for a takedown. This is where everything and everyone held their breath, as the Chokehold was applied with pressure and Khabib looked like he was stuck. After Khabib somehow escaped, he continued his dominant performance and pressure on Poirier, who as this point looked gased and dazed. It didnt take long for Khabib to sink in the Chokehold on Poirier again, it was a very tight this time. Poirer unable to continue Tapped out Immediately. Khabib Successfully defended his LW title in the most dominant performance yet.

It was impossible not to feel for Poirer who gave an emotional interview after his defeat. 14 years in the Fight game and getting his first title opportunity, only to lose to the better man. Khabib gave Poirer huge respect afterwards and even said he would donate money to Poirer's charity. A tough loss but I know one day Poirer will be Champion. Khabib now without a doubt is The best Lightweight in the world. With a second title defence and his record untouched. The Russian is now on the verge of GOAT Status. Marc Meepmma/52ndmma