Dustin Poirier Announces Final UFC Fight Against Max Holloway at UFC 318
In a thrilling announcement that has the MMA world buzzing, Dustin Poirier revealed on “The Pat McAfee Show” that he will step into the Octagon one last time before hanging up his gloves. The 36-year-old fighter will face off against BMF titleholder Max Holloway in a highly anticipated third and final showdown. This epic clash is set to take place in New Orleans at UFC 318 on July 19, with the BMF belt on the line.
Poirier, who boasts a record of 30-9, has already defeated Holloway twice, once via first-round submission and once by unanimous decision. However, this upcoming fight marks Poirier’s return to the Octagon after more than a year away. His last bout was a lightweight title fight at UFC 302 in June 2024, where Islam Makhachev, ESPN’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, finished Poirier in the fifth round. This loss has left Poirier with the unfortunate distinction of being one of the best UFC fighters never to have been an undisputed champion.
Meanwhile, Holloway, at 33, is making a move back up to lightweight after a loss to Ilia Topuria in a featherweight title match in October. His last lightweight bout was at UFC 300 in April 2024, where he knocked out Justin Gaethje to claim the BMF title.
With so much history and legacy on the line, the excitement for this fight is palpable. Brett Okamoto and Andreas Hale have shared their initial reactions to this third installment of the Poirier-Holloway saga, while betting expert Ian Parker has provided an early prediction.
Fill in the blank: Having the UFC back in New Orleans is ____
Okamoto: A credit to Poirier, the UFC and the city. The UFC doesn’t often deviate from its usual venues, so bringing Poirier’s retirement fight to his home state is a significant move. Typically, such a high-profile event would be held in Las Vegas, but the UFC recognized Poirier’s star power and the value of hosting this fight in New Orleans. It’s a testament to Poirier’s influence and the city’s enthusiasm for the sport.
Hale: Perfect storytelling. The UFC has a history of not always being kind to fighters on their way out, but Poirier’s situation is unique. Ranked among the UFC’s top 5 lightweights, Poirier’s retirement fight in his home state feels like a well-orchestrated event. The timing is perfect for the UFC to bring a pay-per-view event to Louisiana for the first time in nine years, and with the BMF title on the line, it promises to be a memorable night.
Is Holloway the right opponent for Poirier’s final UFC fight?
Okamoto: 100%. While Poirier might have preferred a different opponent, the matchup with Holloway makes sense for the fans and the sport. Poirier has the chance to walk away as the BMF champion, and the fight offers Holloway an opportunity to make his mark at lightweight. It’s a fitting end to their rivalry and a compelling matchup for both fighters.
Hale: Absolutely. The trilogy with Holloway is the perfect swan song for Poirier. Their history dates back to 2012, and this fight offers Poirier a chance to retire as a champion. Both fighters are ranked No. 4 and No. 5 in the UFC’s lightweight rankings, making this a logical and exciting matchup.
Would a BMF title mean more for Poirier or Holloway’s legacy?
Okamoto: Poirier. While Holloway has been an undisputed UFC champion, Poirier has never held an undisputed title. The BMF belt would be a significant addition to Poirier’s legacy, especially since he has faced some of the greatest lightweights of all time. For Holloway, the fight itself is more important as he continues his career.
Hale: Poirier by a country mile. The BMF title has lost some credibility, but for Poirier, it represents a chance to finally hold a title. He’s been blocked from acquiring UFC gold on multiple occasions, and winning the BMF belt in his hometown would be a fitting end to his career.
Parker’s early best bet
Poirier to win by decision. This final fight in the trilogy comes at the perfect time for both fighters. Poirier won their last fight by unanimous decision, and with Holloway coming off a knockout loss, Poirier’s power and durability at 155 pounds make him the favorite. Expect a five-round, fight-of-the-night banger.
Originally Written by: ESPN staff
