Former two-weight world champion Conor McGregor is set for rematch with Dustin Poirier at UFC 257 in Abu Dhabi

Former two-weight world champion Conor McGregor is set to reignite his rivalry with Dustin Poirier, with the pair poised to fight at UFC 257 in a highly anticipated rematch. 

McGregor retired from MMA for the third time in his career earlier this year, however the opportunity to face Poirier for a second time proved too enticing to turn down. 

Although the bout is yet to be confirmed, UFC president Dana White insists it will go ahead, as he said: ‘Conor McGregor’s going to show up and fight. I’m not worried about his bout agreement, but I don’t know if it’s been signed.’

Currently, the rematch is scheduled at lightweight and will take place in Abu Dhabi on January 23, with both fighters ramping up their training in preparation. 

Last time the pair faced off in the octagon, the Irishman blew Poirier away with his sharp boxing skills, knocking the American out in the first round. 

Both fighters tried to take the initiative and despite Poirier landing some effective blows at the start, ultimately, he wasn’t able to withstand the power from McGregor’s left-hand. 

Many pundits believe this fight was the turning point in the Notorious’ career, due to how easily he disposed of his main rival in the featherweight division, making him a superstar in the UFC. 

However, Poirier will be looking to avenge his loss this time around and has already started his training camp in Florida.

‘The Diamond’ has been extremely active in the six years since the first fight and will come into UFC 257 in excellent form. 

Having won five of his last six bouts, against some elite opponents such as Justin Gaethje, Eddie Alverez, Max Holloway and Dan Hooker, the 31-year-old will be confident he can level up the series against the Irishman. 

On the other hand, McGregor has fought eight times since, winning on six occasions including his impressive 13-second knockout of reigning champion Jose Aldo. 

His only losses in that period come at the hands of Nate Diaz and Khabib Nurmagomedov, with the latter considered one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. 

With both men gaining a substantial amount of experience, as well as becoming more rounded athletes, an encounter at 170lbs could prove to be an even more engrossing prospect than the first fight. 

By James Humphreys