Dustin Poirier Says ‘Hats Off” to Dan Hooker, But He’s Looking For “Meaningful” Fights

Following Dan Hooker’s win over Al Iaquinta earlier this month, the rising lightweight has been campaigning for a fight with top contender, Dustin Poirier. But, unless something unforeseen happens, it doesn’t look like we’re going to see the two fight anytime soon.

Hooker’s call out of Poirier

After Hooker outscored Iaquinta for a decision win at UFC 243, he immediately called for a bout with Poirier. When Hooker was told Poirier has been pushing for a rematch with Conor McGregor, the New Zealand fighter doubled down and argued the veteran was “chasing leprechauns”.

Hooker has even offered to give half of his purse from a bout with Poirier to the latter’s “Good Fight Foundation.”

Poirier isn’t interested

Well, despite Hooker’s efforts and offer, as it stands right now, Poirier isn’t interested. While talking to MMA Junkie recently, the American Top Team fighter said this:

“That doesn’t get me excited,” Poirier said. “I think it would be a fun fight. That guy is a good fighter, and he’s on the up, he’s been looking really good and beaten some tough guys. But it’s just not that exciting to me. I want there to be something more than just a fight. I want there to be something on the line.

“I know what he’s trying to do, and he’s doing a good job. He’s trying to make some noise and work his way up the ladder, and that’s what he’s doing. Hat’s off to him. But just right now to accept a fight, I want to be excited about it, and I’m not excited about that.”

The 30-year-old Poirier repeated his desire to rematch McGregor, who defeated him in 2014. He also said he’d fight Justin Gaethje again, who Poirier beat in 2018. Poirier also said he’d be interested in fighting Tony Ferguson, before noting:

“That’s just where I’m at right now. I want to have fights that are meaningful, I want to have fights that are exciting, and I want to be excited about the matchup. It all depends on the opponent and what they call me with. The when, the where, the who.”

So, ya. It really doesn’t sound like Hooker’s going to get his wish. While there’s little doubt a fight between Poirier and Hooker would be entertaining, Poirier has a lot more to lose than gain in that match-up. Hooker is currently ranked #7 while Poirier is #2.

Hooker aside, it will be interesting to see what comes next for Poirier. If Conor McGregor doesn’t end up fighting Gaethje, maybe the latter will seek out a rematch with Poirier?