Poirier, Iaquinta both call for UFC release

Get the Full StoryTop-five lightweight contenders Dustin Poirier and Al Iaquinta have both requested to be released from the UFC. Dustin Poirier has not been pleased with the recent developments in the UFC. In late January, The Diamond stated he only wants to take his next fight against either Tony Ferguson or Conor McGregor, or have his contract redone. Otherwise he s not fighting.

On Wednesday, the number-three ranked contender has seemingly shut off any further interests in continuing his career with the UFC.

The Diamond DustinPoirier February 20, 2019

These guys should just release me. The Diamond DustinPoirier February 20, 2019

Not long after, number-four ranked Al Iaquinta, who has had his fair share of grievances towards the company in the past, went on to follow suit.

A1 Iaquinta ALIAQUINTA February 20, 2019

Release me too A1 Iaquinta ALIAQUINTA February 20, 2019

These reactions seem to be connected with the uncertainty in the division s current title picture. Champion Khabib Nurmgamedov remains shelved until his suspension lapses in July, but prefers to wait it out until November for the UFC s annual event in New York City.

To make things worse, Khabib recently called for a catchweight fight against Georges St-Pierre for his return, but is open to fight either in NYC, Moscow, Montreal or Abu Dhabi. This challenge came after St-Pierre announced his retirement plans after failed negotiations for a fight with Khabib.

Share: