Buckley Blasts Poirier Over Airport Slur

Joaquin Buckley confronted Dustin Poirier over language the former UFC lightweight champion used during his June arrest at Atlanta International Airport.

Poirier was detained for public intoxication that month, and footage showed him challenging a police officer while using a racial slur. He later apologized for the incident, according to MMA Fighting. Buckley posted a video Tuesday calling out Poirier after the Louisiana native praised UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit, who has drawn attention for offensive commentary.

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Buckley Questions Poirier's Apology

Buckley accused Poirier of insincerity in the apology he issued after the airport confrontation. The welterweight referenced Poirier's remarks about needing distractions to avoid trouble, dismissing them as disingenuous. Buckley also took issue with Poirier endorsing Hokit, who faces champion Ciryl Gane at UFC 334, saying the support revealed Poirier's true character.

Poirier responded Wednesday with a comment on Buckley's post. He wrote, per MMA Fighting, "Tryna get some views? Shut up or kill me!" Buckley fired back in another video, challenging Poirier to an in-person meeting and warning him against escalating the situation physically.

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Sean Strickland also drew Buckley's attention after fans asked why the welterweight focused on Poirier instead of the middleweight champion, who recently used a slur at a Brandrisk Promotions event. Buckley posted footage of a confrontation with Strickland, writing that he approaches everyone with the same energy. Strickland replied by sharing old sparring footage of him dropping Buckley.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — Joaquin Buckley calls out Dustin Poirier, Sean Strickland for use of racial slur, Poirier and Strickland respond