The MMA world leader is giving fight fans two things they have been dying for in the main event of UFC 291 in a rematch of one of the best fights in lightweight history, and the return of a fan-favorite title.
The April 2018 clash between lightweight stars Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje was one of the best bouts in division history. The two fighters went to war over four rounds until the bout came to a sudden end when Poirier hurt and finished one of the most durable fighters in UFC history.
Also Read: UFC lightweight rankings – Justin Gaethje maintains top-5 spot after UFC 286 win
Ever since the bout fight fans have clamored for a rematch. Especially, since both have gone on to become elite fighters in the weight class and former interim champions. Well, now fans will finally get what they have long wanted with an extra cherry on top.
On Tuesday, the UFC announced that Dustin Poirier vs. Justin Gaethje II will headline the promotion’s return to Salt Lake City, Utah for UFC 291 on July 29. However, the bout between the top five ranked lightweight won’t just be for bragging rights and title contention status, but the company’s fictional “bad motha f****r” title will also be on the line.
The “BMF” title was created for the UFC 244 main event clash between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz in November 2019. “Gamebred” won the bout by technical knockout due to a doctor stoppage, but the belt hasn’t been on the line since. It is a title fans have been supportive of and wanted to see defended or used again.
Along with the headlining bout, the promotion also revealed bouts for the card on July 29, which will also feature a co-main event scrap between one-time UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz as he welcomes former middleweight king Alex Pereira to his new weight class. Below is the full rundown of the other announced matchups for UFC 291.
Also Read: Booking what’s next for UFC Charlotte main card winners, including Jailton Almeida
UFC 291 card:
- Jan Blachowicz vs. Alex Pereira
- Tony Ferguson vs. Bobby Green
- Michael Chiesa vs. Kevin Holland
- Paulo Costa vs. Ikram Aliskerov
- Stephen Thompson vs. Michel Pereira
- Derrick Lewis vs. Marcos Rogerio de Lima
