UFC star Dustin Poirier has confirmed that rapper Lil Wayne will walk him out during his retirement fight at UFC 318, set to take place next month in New Orleans. The announcement brings renewed excitement to Poirier’s final showdown against Max Holloway, as the Louisiana native aims to create a memorable UFC entrance with the support of a hometown legend.
Planning a Historic UFC Entrance with Lil Wayne
Dustin Poirier has long wanted his last fight to be a grand event, and having Lil Wayne by his side for his walkout fits perfectly with that vision. Poirier first entered the UFC walking out to Lil Wayne’s “Drop the World” 14 years ago, and now, at age 36, he hopes to complete the circle by having the rapper perform the same song live during his UFC 318 entrance. In an interview with Full Violence MMA, Poirier revealed that Lil Wayne has agreed to participate:
“His guy said he’s in. We’re still a good ways out but as of right now, yes.”
—Dustin Poirier
The event will take place at the Smoothie King Center, and if the UFC approves this plan, Lil Wayne’s live performance would elevate the atmosphere to that of a major concert, adding a unique flourish to Poirier’s farewell.
This carefully planned entrance aligns with Poirier’s goal to make his walk to the Octagon feel cinematic and meaningful, marking the end of a storied career shaped by memorable moments both inside and outside the cage.
The Significance of UFC 318 in Louisiana for Poirier’s Farewell
The choice of New Orleans as the fight location holds special significance for Dustin Poirier. He has publicly expressed his desire to conclude his career in his home state, telling WDSU earlier that this event is specifically for him and his fans:
“Throughout the world, Dustin Poirier is a big star for us. He’s accomplished a lot in the sport. This is for him, to be honest with you. This is for him. He wanted to have his last fight and end his career in New Orleans so here we are.”
—Dana White, UFC President
Poirier’s attachment to Louisiana is deep-rooted and personal. He first competed in the UFC back in 2008 and has regularly voiced the ambition of retiring where his journey began. The 2015 UFC event in New Orleans previously saw Poirier achieve a knockout victory over Yancy Medeiros in front of a passionate hometown crowd, making UFC 318 a fitting bookend to his career.
By hosting UFC 318 in Louisiana, the promotion honors one of its most respected veterans while reconnecting with a passionate fan base after a long absence—this being the first UFC event in New Orleans in over ten years.
Building Excitement Around What Lies Ahead for ‘The Diamond’
As Poirier prepares for his retirement fight against Max Holloway in their long-awaited trilogy, all eyes are on the potential for a show-stopping entrance bolstered by Lil Wayne’s presence. This collaboration is about more than just the music; it’s a personal celebration of a Louisiana athlete closing his chapter with style and hometown pride.
Fans and the UFC community eagerly anticipate how this unique entrance will unfold, potentially setting a new standard for UFC walkouts. Beyond this final fight, speculation grows about Poirier’s future, with many wondering if he will remain involved in the sport by mentoring new fighters in Louisiana, passing on his knowledge and passion to the next generation.
The partnership with Lil Wayne and the choice of New Orleans as the venue underscore the emotional and cultural ties that have shaped Poirier’s career. It symbolizes a full-circle moment that highlights both his legacy and his determination to honor his roots.
UFC 318: A Landmark Event for Both Fighter and City
Set against the backdrop of New Orleans, UFC 318 will be the sixth UFC event hosted in Louisiana and will serve as a marquee occasion for the city, the UFC, and Dustin Poirier alike. The convergence of Poirier’s farewell fight and Lil Wayne’s participation emphasizes the blending of sport and entertainment, spotlighting local pride on a global stage.
This event is more than a fight; it is the culmination of years of dedication by a fighter who has earned a respected place in the sport alongside legends like Khabib Nurmagomedov. Poirier’s career, filled with accomplishments and heart-pounding battles, finds its fitting farewell in front of his hometown crowd, amplified by Lil Wayne’s cultural influence and performance.
Regardless of the outcome against Max Holloway, UFC 318 promises an emotional and unforgettable night, marking the conclusion of Dustin Poirier’s remarkable UFC journey and setting an inspiring example of honoring one’s past while embracing the future.