Gritty veterans Dustin Poirier and Jim Miller battled it out last night (Sat., Feb. 11, 2017) at UFC 208 live on pay-per-view (PPV) from inside Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, as Miller looked to creep into the top 15 at 155 pounds. It was Poirier’s first appearance since getting knocked out by Michael Johnson this past September, while Miller was trying to win his fourth straight.
Both fighters came out of the gate hot, trading shots along the cage and connecting wildly to finally give the Brooklyn fight fans something to cheer about. It was much of the same in Round 2, as “Diamond” unloaded everything to bust Miller up like an old tomato, but the veteran hung in tough and responded in turn. Miller saw an opening in the final frame after Poirier revealed an injured leg and attacked the ailment like a savvy vet. In defense of his swollen shin, Poirier secured a timely takedown in the middle of the round to regain control and take the action off the feet. In the end, it was Poirier who took home the majority decision win.
The full fight video highlights can be seen above courtesy of UFC.
With this win, Poirier regains momentum in the ultra-crowded lightweight division. The 28-year-old suffered a significant shin injury in the fight, but showcased an improved chin and evolved grappling against a proven lightweight staple. From here, look for “Diamond” to again test the top 10 as he reestablishes himself as a rising title contender.
For complete UFC 208 results and coverage click here.