Dustin Poirier announced he is ready to retire from fighting, making UFC 318 his final bout. During a recent interview with Megan Olivi, he shared his plans to savor every moment of his last fight, but a joke about using steroids after retiring sparked significant fan criticism.
While reflecting on his career and life after the sport, Poirier joked that once drug testing agencies stop checking on him, he might start using steroids. The comment, intended to be lighthearted, quickly circulated on social media, provoking sharp reactions from fans concerned about his health and reputation.
Fan Backlash to Poirier’s Steroid Remarks
The clip of Poirier’s joke about steroids reached many viewers who took to platforms like X to express their disapproval. Comments ranged from disbelief to concern for his well-being and the message his joke might send.
“So he already knows the steroid game… how though?” —Fan
“Don’t do it, Dustin. Protect your mind and mental health for the future.” —Fan
“While I understand this trend, I wish everyone truly understood that Steroids and TRT offer short-term gain for long-term pain. There are no shortcuts in life. Everything has a price.” —Fan
“TRT sure, but you don’t need gear to get jacked.” —Fan
“So he wants to ruin his life and ruin his health.” —Fan
These responses underscore the tension fans feel about performance-enhancing drugs in combat sports, especially when voiced by a respected fighter nearing retirement.
Reflecting on Career Milestones and Final Match
Aside from the controversy, Poirier also took time during the interview to revisit key victories, including his famous rematch against Conor McGregor in Abu Dhabi, which marked a turning point in his career. He acknowledged how the sport transformed him both professionally and personally.
As he prepares for UFC 318, Poirier will face Max Holloway in what is expected to be a meaningful finale to his fighting journey.
Looking Back on Poirier’s First Fight with Max Holloway
Poirier described his upcoming bout as a full-circle moment, recalling their first encounter over a decade ago when both fighters were still emerging talents. Holloway had taken the fight on short notice for his UFC debut, prompting Poirier to swiftly switch his preparation from a grappler to a skilled striker.
Poirier won that initial match by submission, and now the pair meet once again, both having established remarkable legacies in the sport. He considers Holloway the ideal opponent for his final fight.
“I was his first fight in the UFC. He took the fight on short notice. I was supposed to fight Ricardo Lamas, then I was going to fight Rani Yahya. Both guys got hurt somehow, and Max filled in… He [was] super young. This was, I think 12 [or] 13 years ago, but I didn’t know a whole lot about him. I couldn’t find footage. He only had a few pro fights, but obviously, for the right reason, they brought him in. He’s a legend.” —Dustin Poirier
With that fight standing as the starting point of a long-standing rivalry, the anticipation for their UFC 318 matchup is high.
What Lies Ahead for Dustin Poirier
Poirier’s announcement of retirement marks the end of an era for a fighter who has left a lasting impact on mixed martial arts. Despite the controversy over his offhand comment, his focus remains on closing this chapter with a memorable final performance against Max Holloway.
The outcome at UFC 318 will not only define his career’s conclusion but also set the tone for his life after fighting, as fans and commentators watch closely to see how he transitions beyond the octagon.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many times did Conor lose to Dustin Poirier?
A. During his 500 days as the UFC lightweight champion, McGregor never defended his title. Many people think this removal was overdue. However, it highlights McGregor’s influence in the UFC since it took a while for them to act.