Former UFC fighter Dustin Poirier, one of the most popular athletes to compete in Dana White’s promotion, has sparked controversy after being removed from a flight for allegedly being drunk, then threatening police at an airport and being arrested. Poirier, nicknamed “The Diamond,” retired last July after an 18-year career, including 14 years in the UFC, following a loss to Max Holloway for the BMF belt.
A video of the arrest was published on Tuesday and showed Poirier yelling at officers, including, “You f***ing cowards. I’ll fight you right now, come on. This will end badly for you. Coward.” Police at the scene reportedly stayed calm, recognized him as a former UFC fighter and kept their distance. After one officer pulled out a Taser, the situation began to calm down, and Poirier was arrested and taken to the police station.
He was released on bail a few hours later. Later that night, after the video spread online, Poirier posted an apology on social media. “I have reached a point where I need help,” he wrote, adding that retirement has not been easy for him, but “alcohol is not the answer.” He said alcohol ruined his father’s life and that he will not let it ruin his own, adding that his family deserves him “100%” and that he is trying to refocus and move forward in the right way.
The incident drew mixed reactions in the fighting world. Some fighters defended Poirier and showed him respect, while others used the episode to criticize him, including Colby Covington, who is now outside the UFC.
