Dustin Poirier has captured widespread attention with his impressive physical condition during his training for UFC 318. The fighter appeared exceptionally shredded in a recent sparring video shared ahead of his final fight at the event, where he is set to face Max Holloway for the BMF title.
The trilogy bout between Poirier and Holloway will take place on July 19 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, where the 36-year-old Poirier will fight in front of his home crowd. This contest marks Poirier’s farewell in the octagon, intensifying anticipation among MMA fans.
Impressive Conditioning Displayed in Recent Training Sessions
Poirier’s conditioning has drawn notable praise after he posted a video on Instagram demonstrating his pad work with coach Dyah Davis at American Top Team. The clip highlighted his strength and technique, revealing a level of fitness that many supporters deemed better than ever before.
Fans quickly reacted to the footage with enthusiasm, commending Poirier’s physique and readiness. One admirer commented on the fighter’s physique, noting,
“He’s never looked that good, his shoulders are nice an round, back looks strong. I don’t think he’s ever been in this kinda shape before!!”
Another fan emphasized the technical advantage, saying,
“What people who don’t fight don’t get which i think is demonstrated niceley here, is that when someone has tehcnique, it looks like they are farther than they are but really they are in perfect range to break your nose. That’s why seeing red is actually the opposite of what you would want in a fight.”
Additional reactions reflected excitement and confidence in Poirier’s condition and prospects. One user urged for another fight, stating,
“Please, 1 more with Ilia Topuria,”
while another cheerfully remarked,
“Float like a butterfly sting like a bee his hands can’t hit what his eyes can’t see. Rumble young man rumble!!!”
History Between Poirier and Holloway Adds Drama Ahead of UFC 318
The upcoming fight represents the third time Poirier and Holloway will face each other inside the octagon. Their rivalry began at UFC 143 in 2012 when Poirier defeated Holloway by submission in the first round, marking an early setback for Holloway’s career.
They met again at UFC 236 in a fight for the interim lightweight title, where Poirier secured a unanimous decision victory. These previous wins have only intensified the stakes for their upcoming match, elevating UFC 318’s main event to intense significance.
Contender Paddy Pimblett Shares Predictions on the UFC 318 Showdown
Certain voices in MMA have expressed varied opinions on the trilogy fight. Paddy Pimblett, speaking on the Verse Us with Eric Nicksick podcast, shared his view that Holloway is under considerable pressure, suggesting that the outcome might not be straightforward despite Poirier’s home advantage.
“It’d be heavy for Holloway if there’s two different fighters who’ve beat him three times. I’ve seen him say, ‘He took a lot from me. He gave me my first loss, and he took away my win streak. So, I’m gonna take his retirement fight.’ I think Holloway’s motivated. I can see Holloway winning, to be honest. Don’t know why. I think it’s just one of them. Dustin’s fighting in his hometown, his last fight. Everyone expects him to win. The pressure, I think he might [lose].”
—Paddy Pimblett, MMA Fighter
Pimblett’s comments highlight the unpredictable nature of this fight, reflecting the mental and emotional weight both fighters carry into their final bout.
The Anticipation of Poirier’s Farewell and Its Potential Impact
Dustin Poirier’s impressive physical state and veteran experience make him a formidable opponent in what is expected to be a fiercely competitive fight. His strong connection to the New Orleans crowd adds an emotional element that could drive his performance on fight night.
The outcome of this final appearance could have a lasting impact on both fighters’ legacies. Poirier’s ability to maintain peak performance for his send-off demonstrates his dedication, while Holloway’s motivation to claim victory makes UFC 318 a must-watch event for MMA fans worldwide.
As July 19 approaches, the eyes of the mixed martial arts community will be firmly fixed on the Smoothie King Center, eagerly awaiting the thrilling conclusion to the Poirier-Holloway trilogy.