Poirier: McGregor rematch 'isn't about getting even'

Dustin Poirier is taking a different approach to his rematch against Conor McGregor.

The former interim lightweight champion said he fought emotionally in the 2014 encounter, which he lost via first-round knockout.

"I wanted to hurt the guy," Poirier told MMA Junkie's Mike Bohn. "This time, I just want to outsmart him. I just want to beat him. And that's it. This is business. This isn't any ill will toward the guy."

Poirier added he's not thinking about the first bout heading into the rematch, which will headline UFC 257 on Jan. 23.

"This isn't about getting even for me," Poirier said. "This isn't like a revenge type of thing for me. This is about moving my career forward, about putting my family in a better spot."

McGregor and Poirier's first fight took place in the featherweight division and before they were top contenders. McGregor won his first UFC title more than a year later, and Poirier didn't challenge for an undisputed belt until 2019.

Poirier believes he and McGregor are "more mature" than when they fought the first time.

"This is a completely different fight," Poirier said.