Dustin Poirier cites brain scan scarring and thinning as factor in retirement

Former UFC lightweight champion Dustin Poirier revealed that a recent neurological scan showed scarring and thinning in his brain, which he says contributed to his decision to retire from mixed‑martial arts. He emphasized that doctors cannot diagnose chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) while a person is alive and that a definitive diagnosis would only be possible post‑mortem.

In a candid interview, Poirier also discussed the August airport incident that led to his arrest for public intoxication, taking full responsibility for his actions and linking his behavior to personal stressors, including his father's homelessness and unresolved childhood trauma. He described the aftermath of retirement as a period of searching for purpose after two decades of a singular fighting focus.

Poirier stressed that while the scan shows abnormalities, it does not provide a clear medical explanation for his behavior, and he continues to seek therapy to understand underlying issues without using them as excuses.