Alexander Volkanovski snubs Conor McGregor trilogy when picking Dustin Poirier win that ‘stands out’ the most

Alexander Volkanovski explains picking Benoit Saint-Denis KO as Dustin Poirier win that ‘stands out’

During a recent appearance on Fox Sports’ Main Event, Volkanovski previewed Poirier’s final farewell and reflected on some key moments in his UFC career.

‘Alexander the Great’ was asked if any particular Poirier win stands out above the rest, with a list being presented featuring notable results such as Poirier’s knockout against Conor McGregor, Fight of the Year war with Dan Hooker, and Madison Square Garden submission versus Michael Chandler.

But Volkanovski ultimately chose a triumph that was not on the list — Poirier’s brutal knockout of Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 299 last year, which netted him a surprise third shot at the undisputed lightweight crown.

“This one’s a bit tricky, because he has had so many bigger fights like (against) your Conor McGregors,” Volkanovski said. “But one thing that stands out to me is Benoit Saint-Denis.

“I think that is one fight that actually stands out to me, just because it was coming off a bad loss where people would have thought, ‘Ah, he’s done.’ (Against) a hot prospect, a lot of hype on this guy.

“And just comes out and just — in wild fashion as well, like Dustin Poirier always does, gets the victory,” Volkanovski added. “That just means a lot because I’ve been in them situations. I just know how big that is for your career.

“For him to bounce back and get a title fight as well, incredible fight that was, and now finish with the BMF fight as well, I just think the bounce-back that far into his career and to still be at the top is just impressive. That one stands out to me.”

Dustin Poirier could get the chance for a similar highlight at UFC 318

If Holloway repeats his renowned point to the ground at UFC 318, Poirier could have openings to land a similar kill shot to close out his career in New Orleans.

‘Blessed’ previously emerged victorious from that action, when Holloway brutally slept Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 . But having fallen to the first KO of his career against Ilia Topuria since then, many have suggested the Hawaiian will be more vulnerable moving forward.

Evidently, that won’t be putting Holloway off.

“Last dance. Last 10 seconds. Point down to the ground,” Holloway told MMA Junkie. “He (Poirier) might even do it. I’m 100 percent sure he’s going to bring it.

“Hearing those words excites me. If it’s a war he wants, it’s a war he’s going to get. It’s going to be a bunch of knuckleheads in there. I wouldn’t want it any other way, especially with the BMF title on the line.”