MMA SQUARED: Khabib vs Poirier and the high stakes subplots of UFC 242

International expectations, who is waiting in the wings to challenge next, who moves the needle and doesn’t give a damn about the belt? Everything shifts on Saturday.

So much is on the line at UFC 242. Dustin Poirier will make that case that he is one of the greatest lightweights to ever step into the Octagon while Khabib attempts to sustain his air of invincibility. One detail that has always stood out to me is that Poirier might have the greatest career comeback after getting completely flatlined by Michael Johnson. After that loss he has won every fight and a post fight bonus, against former champions in the UFC, Bellator, WEC, and WSOF.

Behind the scenes, this is the UFC’s first venture back to Middle East of the WME/Endeavor era. There must be some inter-office pressure to deliver in a market that is flush with disposable income and an appetite for combat sports.

Will we ever see Khabib vs Tony? It is the white whale of MMA fans across the globe.

Take care of yourself and I’ll talk to you next week.

Chris