News Summary
Dustin Poirier is set to retire following his third fight against Max Holloway at UFC 318. With Poirier leading their series 2-0, this event in Louisiana will mark a pivotal moment in his career. The fight promises heightened emotional stakes, especially as Poirier has garnered significant support from fans. Max Holloway will defend his BMF championship in this anticipated showdown, further contributing to the electric atmosphere of the event. With both fighters boasting impressive records, UFC 318 is positioned as a climactic chapter in Poirier’s storied career.
New Orleans – Dustin Poirier is set to retire after his highly anticipated fight against Max Holloway at UFC 318, scheduled for July 18, 2025. This matchup, which marks the third encounter between the two fighters, sees Poirier leading the series 2-0, having previously defeated Holloway in 2012 and again in 2019.
Poirier submitted Holloway in their first meeting over a decade ago. Their second bout was for the interim lightweight title, where Poirier emerged victorious by decision, adding another significant victory to his career. This next fight is expected to be momentous for Poirier, as he will retire following the event, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Max Holloway, a former UFC featherweight champion, will defend his ceremonial BMF championship in this fight. Holloway secured the BMF title after delivering a stunning Knockout of the Year performance against Justin Gaethje in 2024, showcasing his striking proficiency and resilience as a competitor.
The upcoming event takes place in Poirier’s home state of Louisiana, heightening the emotional stakes for the fighter. Poirier has acknowledged the immense support he has received from fans and the community as he prepares for what he has called the final fight of his career. The attendance is expected to be significant, with many fans eager to see the fighter enter the Octagon one last time.
Poirier’s entrance will feature special guest rapper Lil Wayne, another Louisiana native, adding a unique element to the event as the fighter looks to leave an unforgettable mark on his last appearance in a familiar environment.
The UFC 318 card promises an exciting lineup, with the co-main event featuring a middleweight clash between Paulo Costa and Roman Kopylov. Additionally, the main card will include several noteworthy fights, such as Kevin Holland vs. Daniel Rodriguez, Dan Ige vs. Patricio Pitbull, and Michael Johnson vs. Daniel Zellhuber. The main card is set to air on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View, starting at 10 p.m. ET, with preliminary bouts beginning at 8 p.m. ET and early prelims at 6 p.m. ET.
The main event between Poirier and Holloway is scheduled for five rounds, while other bouts on the card will be contested over three rounds. With Poirier holding a career record of 30 wins and 9 losses, and Holloway at 26 wins and 8 losses, both fighters carry a wealth of experience and achievement into this significant matchup.
Throughout his career, Poirier has claimed notable victories against renowned fighters, including Conor McGregor, further validating his position as one of the top athletes in mixed martial arts. UFC 318 has been framed as a compelling conclusion to Poirier’s storied career, amid the backdrop of the excitement and anticipation surrounding the trilogy fight.
Poirier’s most recent fight in New Orleans was at UFC Fight Night in 2015, where he faced Yancy Medeiros. The emotion tied to his final fight in his home state will likely amplify the atmosphere at the event, drawing in support and interest from across the community.
With the matchup against Holloway deemed one of the most anticipated battles in UFC history, fans and fighters alike are eager to witness the culmination of Poirier’s career in what promises to be a spectacular night of fighting.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Holloway vs. Poirier: A Historic Lightweight Clash
Northern Ireland Prepares for The Open Championship
Dustin Poirier to Retire After UFC 318 Fight with Max Holloway
UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier Trilogy in New Orleans
Additional Resources
- UFC Official Weigh-in Results
- ESPN: How to Watch UFC 318
- BBC Sport: UFC 318 Preview
- Wikipedia: Dustin Poirier
- Google Search: UFC 318
