UFC 302: Makhachev vs. Poirier

 Official Scorecards | UFC 302: Makhachev vs. Poirier

Islam Makhachev remains the reigning champion after UFC 302, successfully defending his lightweight title in a thrilling main event in Newark, New Jersey. Makhachev secured victory with a dramatic fifth-round D'Arce choke against Dustin Poirier, extending his impressive winning streak to 14.

Dustin Poirier, in his third title attempt, delivered what might be his best performance yet. He managed to keep Makhachev at bay for much of the fight and excelled in the striking exchanges. Despite having his back taken in the first round, Poirier stayed composed and defended effectively. However, Makhachev's sudden choke ended the fight decisively.

After the bout, Poirier hinted at retirement, echoing sentiments he had expressed throughout the week. If this was indeed his final appearance in the Octagon, "The Diamond" will be remembered as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history never to capture the undisputed gold.

In the co-main event, Sean Strickland secured a split decision victory over Paulo Costa, solidifying his position as a title contender. Despite the split decision, Strickland's dominance was evident. Following his loss to Dricus du Plessis in January, Strickland called for a title shot. Kevin Holland also made headlines by submitting Michal Oleksiejczuk with an armbar that appeared to break his opponent's arm.

CBS Sports provided comprehensive coverage throughout fight week, bringing you the latest news, in-depth features, and betting advice. Thanks for joining us, and we'll see you at UFC 303 for Conor McGregor's return in Las Vegas.

UFC 302 Fight Card and Results

• Islam Makhachev (c) def. Dustin Poirier via fifth-round submission (D'Arce choke)
• Sean Strickland def. Paulo Costa via split decision (46-49, 50-45, 49-46)
• Kevin Holland def. Michal Oleksiejczuk via first-round submission (armbar)
• Niko Price def. Alex Morono via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Randy Brown def. Elizeu Zaleski via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Roman Kopylov def. Cesar Almeida via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)
• Jailton Almeida def. Alexandr Romanov via first-round submission (rear-naked choke)
• Grant Dawson def. Joe Solecki via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
• Jake Matthews def. Phil Rowe via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
• Bassil Hafez def. Mickey Gall via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
• Ailin Perez def. Joselyne Edwards via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
• Andre Lima def. Mitch Raposo via split decision (30-27, 28-29, 30-27)

UFC 302 Countdown

• Staff predictions and expert picks for the main card
• Brookhouse: Best bets to consider on the main card
• Arman Tsarukyan's prediction for the main event of UFC 302
• Strickland believes UFC didn't want him as champion: 'They hate it, but they accept it'
• Campbell: Poirier's continued pursuit of an elusive title
• Mahjouri: Undercard fights to watch in New Jersey
• Khabib returns to Makhachev's corner for his latest title defense
• Poirier considering retirement after UFC 302
• Poirier plans to leave Makhachev unconscious in the main event
• Campbell: Five biggest storylines to watch in New Jersey