Report: UFC willing to replace Dustin Poirier and make Gaethje vs McGregor on January 23

[Doughie99]

and how was he doing before conor KO'd him the first time?
Conor already beat half those guys you already mentioned.
This fight is a waste for conor and looks like dustin isnt even interested to get revenge Dude just wants to get KO'd and get a payday.

Answer for you :
Prior to McGregor, Poirier had won 9 of his previous 11 fights (including a win over Max Holloway).

So...there's your answer.