Dustin Poirier to Retire After UFC 318 Fight with Max Holloway

Fans cheering at the UFC 318 event for Dustin Poirier's final fight in New Orleans.

News Summary

Dustin Poirier will conclude his professional fighting career at UFC 318 with a highly anticipated trilogy fight against Max Holloway. Scheduled to take place at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, this event marks Poirier’s first retirement match as he aims for a memorable farewell against the fighter he has previously defeated twice. With local rapper Lil Wayne joining him for his walkout, UFC 318 promises to be a significant occasion, featuring a strong fight card and marking the UFC’s return to New Orleans after a decade.

New Orleans to Host Dustin Poirier’s Retirement Fight Against Max Holloway at UFC 318

Dustin Poirier will retire from professional fighting following UFC 318, scheduled for July 19, 2025. The main event will feature a highly anticipated trilogy fight against Max Holloway at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, marking a special moment in Poirier’s career as he is a Louisiana native.

Poirier boasts a 2-0 record against Holloway, having previously defeated him by submission in 2012 and again winning the interim lightweight title fight in 2019. This fight is expected to be a climactic closure to Poirier’s exceptional career in the octagon.

Adding local celebrity flair to the event, rapper Lil Wayne will accompany Poirier for his walkout, further igniting excitement amongst fans and spectators. UFC 318 will also feature a main card with various top fighters across different weight classes, cultivating significant interest in the event.

Exciting Fight Card Details

The co-main event will see rising contender Roman Kopylov battling former title challenger Paulo Costa in the middleweight division. Additionally, Kevin Holland is set to face Daniel Rodriguez in a welterweight bout, while former two-division Bellator champion Patricio Pitbull aims for his first victory in the UFC against Dan Ige in a featherweight match.

UFC 318 is particularly notable as it marks the UFC’s first return to New Orleans in a decade. Poirier emphasizes the significance of this event, reflecting on his deep connection to the location and the local fanbase. As he prepares for his final fight, Poirier aims to deliver a breathtaking performance, hoping for a “Fight of the Night” caliber matchup.

Poirier’s Record and Recent Performance

As a professional fighter, Poirier’s record stands at 30 wins, 9 losses, and 1 no contest. His last outing in the octagon was a submission loss to Islam Makhachev for the lightweight championship, which has intensified his determination for a memorable farewell fight.

The upcoming match will also represent Holloway’s return to the lightweight division following his knockout loss to Ilia Topuria. Compounding the stakes further, the BMF title will be on the line with Holloway defending it after achieving CBS Sports’ 2024 Knockout of the Year against Justin Gaethje. Poirier aspires to conclude his career with a victory and potentially claim the BMF title.

Event Schedule

The prelims for UFC 318 are scheduled to commence at 8 PM ET, followed by the main card kicking off at 10 PM ET. With a mix of local pride, top-tier fights, and the potential for an unforgettable farewell for Poirier, UFC 318 is shaping up to be an event for the ages.