UFC lightweight champ, Islam Makhachev will return to action to defend his title against fan-favorite Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in June 2024.
Makhachev has looked unstoppable lately with two successive wins over Alexander Volkonovski. While, Poirier appeared reenergized in his return to the win column, with a 2nd round KO over Benoit Saint-Denis. We review the latest Makhachev vs Poirier odds with a fight prediction and betting props to follow.
Makhachev vs Poirier Odds
| Fighter | Odds |
| Islam Makhachev | -550 |
| Dustin Poirier | +410 |
Islam Makhachev is opening as a -550 betting favorite in the upcoming UFC 302, while Dustin Poirier is an underdog at +410. In terms of betting here, Poirier as the underdog is a profitable but risky bet – with $410 profit coming from a $100 moneyline wager.
I will be reviewing the best bets and props for UFC 302 once they are live. In the meantime, make sure to check out the top UFC betting sites for 2024. Don’t forget that the Makhachev vs Poirier fight is happening at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey on June 1, 2024.
Betting Props for UFC 302
For bettors looking to maximize their chances with prop bets, focusing on Islam Makhachev’s strengths provides a strategic advantage.
Betting on Makhachev to win by submission, especially with favorable odds of +100 on FanDuel, aligns with his dominant grappling skills.
Another solid bet is that the fight won’t go the distance, with odds around -500 across multiple sports betting apps, reflecting both fighters’ high finishing rates.
Additionally, wagering on the fight to start round 2 at -280 on BetRivers offers a safer option, given the likelihood of a competitive and drawn-out contest.
A wager on Dustin Poirier to win by submission in round 5, boasting odds as high as +12000 on Caesars, promises a massive payout if the improbable happens. Will Dustin go for the gilly once again?!
Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier Prediction
This fight will mark Makhachev’s third title defense, having already defended his 155 strap twice against Alexander Volkanovski in 2023. As for Poirier, this is another major chance for him to seek redemption. He is a fan favorite and a future UFC hall of Famer, but his ultimate goal is to win the UFC gold before he retires.
Will Poirier trying and attempt multiple standing guillotine choke Makhachev? You can probably count on at least two attempts in the bid to submit the submission specialist.
Acknowledging Poirier’s revered status as a veteran in the sport, Makhachev remains confident in his grappling and wrestling abilities, which he believes will overwhelm Poirier.
Makhachev envisions a scenario where he secures takedowns, defends against Poirier’s famed guillotine choke, and ultimately submits him with a rear-naked choke.
While Poirier boasts exceptional boxing and striking skills, Makhachev contends that his own grappling and wrestling acumen will be decisive. Additionally, Makhachev has showcased improved striking in recent bouts, exemplified by a head kick knockout of Alexander Volkanovski, a factor he believes could trouble Poirier.
It was less than a year ago that Poirier was KO’d by a head kick from Justin Gaethje, who completely lulled “The Diamond” into a clean shot. Poirier will have to be just as cautious on the feet with Makhachev as he will be in the grappling department.
Heading into the highly anticipated lightweight title clash, Makhachev emerges as the betting favorite, yet Poirier undoubtedly retains a chance against the champion. This could be Poirier’s last shot at the 155lb strap, as he approaches his 40th professional MMA fight against Makhachev at UFC 302.
In the end this remains Makhachev’s era, his grappling ability is unmatched at lightweight and his striking improvements have become impressive. Enough that he may find himself throwing the odd head kick to catch Poirier off guard.
Betting Pick: Makhachev
