Dustin Poirier vs. Justin Gaethje Targeted for Spring UFC Event

A lightweight slugfest is in the works for the spring, as Dustin Poirier is expected to square off against Justin Gaethje at an as-yet-to-be determined UFC event.

MMAjunkie.com first reported the pairing, and it has since been confirmed by multiple outlets. Verbal agreements for the contest are reportedly in place, although the fight has not been officially announced by the Las Vegas-based promotion. While a date for the bout has not been finalized, it will likely take place in April or May.

Poirier went unbeaten in three 2017 appearances, although a UFC 211 clash with Eddie Alvarez was ruled a no contest due to an accidental knee landed by the former Bellator MMA champion. Most recently, “The Diamond” submitted ex-155 pound champ Anthony Pettis with a body triangle in the third round at UFC Fight Night 120 on Nov. 11.

Gaethje, meanwhile, is coming off the first defeat of his 19-bout career, a third-round TKO loss to Alvarez at UFC 218. The former World Series of Fighting titlist debuted in the Octagon with a “Fight of the Year” candidate, as he stopped Michael Johnson in the second round at “The Ultimate Fighter 25” finale.