In an upcoming clash at UFC 302, Islam Makhachev is set to defend his lightweight title against Dustin Poirier. With this being Makhachev's third title defense, he has the opportunity to tie the lightweight record, currently held by four different champions. His friend and coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former lightweight champion, believes that Makhachev has the upper hand due to his own experience facing "The Diamond."

Nurmagomedov, in a YouTube video documenting Makhachev's training camp, stated that many people underestimate Poirier. He personally fought Poirier back in 2019 at UFC 242 when Poirier held the interim lightweight championship. Although Poirier had his moments in the fight, Nurmagomedov displayed his dominance by submitting him in the third round.

Despite his victory over Poirier, Nurmagomedov acknowledges the seasoned warrior that Dustin Poirier is. With over 22 or 23 wins in the UFC, Poirier has proven himself to be a formidable opponent. However, on June 1, he will be Makhachev's opponent, and the team has prepared a concrete plan for the fight.

Nurmagomedov hopes that Makhachev can improve on his past performance against Poirier. It is their belief that understanding Poirier's strengths and weaknesses will give them the advantage in the bout. Although the details of their gameplan remain undisclosed, Makhachev suggested that they would build upon the successful strategies employed by Nurmagomedov in his fight against Poirier.

"I think this fight will be beneficial for us to review and build a plan together," Makhachev stated. "When Khabib was preparing for him, we trained together, and I was already involved in the discussion of the fight preparation plan against Dustin. I don't think the preparation and plan for the fight will differ much because we know Dustin's strengths and weaknesses."

The stage is set for an intriguing battle between Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier. As Makhachev looks to solidify his legacy as a dominant lightweight champion, he has the guidance and support of Khabib Nurmagomedov, whose expertise and experience against Poirier will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their preparation. Fight fans can expect an intense showdown on June 1, with Makhachev aiming to finish Poirier off in the second or third round, as per Nurmagomedov's hopes.