Dustin Poirier prepares for his final UFC fight against Max Holloway, aiming to close his career on a high note.
Dustin Poirier is set to make his farewell appearance inside the UFC octagon on July 19 in New Orleans, where he will face Max Holloway for the BMF title. This fight, marking Poirier’s final UFC bout, will bring together two of the sport’s most celebrated fighters in a highly anticipated showdown.
These twofighters have previously met twice, with both contests earning praise as instant classics. Notably, one of these matches was Holloway’s UFC debut, yet he has not been able to overcome Poirier in either bout, adding extra motivation for him to finally secure a victory against ‘The Diamond.’
For Poirier, who has been contemplating retirement for over a year, the decision to step away came after his unsuccessful attempt to win the lightweight championship from Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 earlier this year. Originally, Poirier hoped to conclude his career with a trilogy fight against another legendary fighter, Justin Gaethje, but that matchup did not materialize. Despite this, Poirier views Holloway’s legendary status as equally fitting for the final chapter of his career.
Mike Brown, Poirier’s coach and former UFC competitor, honored the fighter ahead of the match, praising his natural talent and fierce spirit. Brown said,
Image of: Dustin Poirier
“There are athletes, there are martial artists, and there are fighters. @dustinpoirier is a 100% a natural, pure-born fighter. He also might be the baddest dude I ever met,”
—Mike Brown, Coach and Former UFC Fighter.
Other fighters have also expressed admiration for Poirier’s career. UFC women’s bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison, who trained alongside Poirier at American Top Team, described him as a true diamond forged through adversity, stating,
“Forged in the fire. A diamond through and through,”
Lightweight contender Mateusz Gamrot added his support with enthusiasm, commenting,
“That’s right !!! The Champ !! Let’s go.”
—Mateusz Gamrot, Lightweight Fighter.
How UFC 318 Will Spotlight Poirier’s Last Performance
The UFC has organized the UFC 318 event to pay tribute to Poirier’s distinguished career. UFC president Dana White acknowledged the significance of the occasion during an interview with WDSU Louisiana, noting,
“He’s accomplished a lot in the sport. This is for him, to be honest with you. He wanted to have his last fight and end his career in New Orleans, so here we are.”
—Dana White, UFC President.
Although the fight is expected to be an intense and aggressive battle between two elite fighters, the event will also serve as an emotional farewell for Poirier. Fans and fighters alike recognize UFC 318 as a celebration of his journey and legacy within mixed martial arts.
A Special Walkout Guest to Mark Poirier’s Final Bout
Adding to the sentimental value of his last UFC fight, Poirier will be walking out to the octagon accompanied by a special guest. Lil Wayne, the iconic rapper who walked with Poirier during his first-ever UFC entrance in 2011, will return for UFC 318 to provide that same memorable moment.
According to Poirier’s own statements, Lil Wayne’s presence for the walkout is confirmed as of now. ESPN MMA shared this detail, highlighting the connection between Poirier’s early UFC days and this final bout, underscoring the significance of such a personal touch at the event.
The Final Chapter in a Legendary Career
The fight between Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway at UFC 318 is not just a competition for the BMF title; it represents the closing act of a remarkable career. Poirier’s achievements and relentless fighting style have earned him a place among UFC’s elite, and this farewell event in New Orleans is set to honor his impact on the sport. The bout will likely draw intense attention from the UFC community, as fans witness ‘The Diamond’ take his last steps in the octagon.
Looking ahead, this fight may also influence the future dynamics of the lightweight and featherweight divisions, with Holloway eager to claim a win that has eluded him. Meanwhile, Poirier’s retirement may open doors for new stars to rise, but his legacy as a fighter defined by heart and grit will remain influential in MMA circles for years to come.
