UFC fighters are renowned for crafting unique personas, and their walkout rituals are a key part of this. From Conor McGregor’s swagger to Alex Pereira’s stoic bow, these pre-fight moments leave indelible marks on fans and the sport itself. Music plays a vital role in this, allowing fighters to express themselves creatively and connect with the audience even before the first punch is thrown. Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier is a prime example, curating a diverse and impactful collection of walkout songs throughout his career.
As Dustin Poirier prepares to face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight championship at UFC 302, the anticipation is palpable. This fight represents Poirier’s third attempt to seize the elusive title, making it a pivotal moment in his career. While the stakes are incredibly high, let’s delve into a signature aspect of Poirier’s fight nights: his walkout music. Known for his eclectic taste, Poirier has consistently chosen songs that reflect his mindset and the energy he brings to the octagon. So, what tunes does “The Diamond” select to accompany his journey to the fight? Let’s explore the soundtrack of Dustin Poirier’s career.
The Diverse Rhythms of Dustin Poirier’s Walkouts
Across the UFC landscape, fighters’ walkout songs are as varied as their fighting styles. From Israel Adesanya’s iconic entrance to The Undertaker’s theme to Conor McGregor’s poignant tribute to Sinead O’Connor with “The Foggy Dew,” memorable walkout songs are a staple of UFC events. However, Dustin Poirier’s musical selections deserve a closer look, showcasing a dynamic range that resonates with fans.
Most recently, for his UFC 291 rematch against Justin Gaethje, and again at UFC 299 against Benoit Saint-Denis, Poirier energized the arena with “The Boss” by James Brown. This choice exemplifies his tendency to draw from different genres and eras. Looking back, Poirier’s walkout song history reveals an even broader spectrum of musical influences. For his bout against Pablo Garza, he chose the hard-hitting “Deliverance” by Bubba Sparxxx. When facing Conor McGregor, he opted for the bold and anthemic “Diamonds From Sierra Leone” by Kanye West. His fight with Michael Johnson saw him enter to the confident beat of “I Don’t Get Tired” by Kevin Gates featuring August Alsina. And against Eddie Alvarez, the classic motivational anthem “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” set the stage. “The Diamond” clearly understands the power of music to set the tone, selecting tracks that amplify the unique atmosphere of each fight.
Adding another layer to his musical narrative, Poirier recently revealed his walkout music for UFC 302 at media day. For what he hints could be his final fight, Poirier will walk out to a unique mashup. He’s blending the powerful energy of James Brown’s “The Boss” with Willie Spence’s soulful rendition of Rihanna’s “Diamonds.” This combination suggests a blend of raw power and resilient brilliance, perfectly encapsulating Poirier’s fighting spirit.
Dustin Poirier reacts after his TKO victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 264.
Is UFC 302 Dustin Poirier’s Last Stand?
The saying “third time’s the charm” carries significant weight as Dustin Poirier approaches UFC 302 on June 1st. This fight against Islam Makhachev isn’t just another title shot; it appears to be “The Diamond’s” last chance to claim undisputed champion status in the lightweight division. Shortly after the title fight announcement, the 35-year-old Poirier expressed his belief that this might be his final opportunity to compete for the belt.
“I know this is my shot, I won’t get another one,” Poirier stated in a recent interview with FOX, underlining the gravity of the situation. Speaking with Ariel Helwani, he further emphasized that the Makhachev fight could be his “last shot” at etching his name in the lightweight history books. “I’m coming in there to hurt him. This is my last shot. Mom’s spaghetti. Let’s go,” Poirier declared on ‘The MMA Hour’, conveying a mix of determination and perhaps a hint of finality.
The future beyond UFC 302 remains uncertain for Dustin Poirier. Retirement is a possibility, or perhaps a move to the welterweight division could be on the horizon. Regardless of what comes next, the upcoming fight against Makhachev is poised to be a defining moment. Who will emerge victorious at UFC 302? The world waits to find out.
