After a UFC career spanning over 14 years and 16 years as a professional fighter overall, Dustin Poirier is preparing for his final battle inside the Octagon. The Louisiana native will headline UFC 318 on July 19 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, marking his anticipated UFC farewell. This event follows his submission loss to Islam Makhachev last summer, which denied him the undisputed lightweight title for the third time.
The announcement of his retirement was made public by ‘The Diamond’ himself, who selected this fight to serve as a meaningful conclusion to a long and successful career, especially given its location close to home. Despite some believing he still has more to offer competitively, Poirier’s decision reflects a considered choice rather than a sudden exit from the sport.
Insights from Alan Jouban on Poirier’s Longstanding Thoughts About Retirement
Alan Jouban, a fellow Louisianan and former UFC fighter who has trained alongside Poirier in Lafayette, shared insight into how long Poirier has been contemplating retirement. Speaking on The Bohnfire podcast with Mike Bohn, Jouban revealed that retirement thoughts first emerged publicly after Poirier’s 2021 trilogy fight against Conor McGregor.
Having reunited shortly after moving back to Lafayette, Jouban described how Poirier dropped subtle hints about retirement over several years. He said,
“I moved back to Lafayette four years ago and I immediately went to the gym and linked up with Dustin,”
—Alan Jouban, former UFC fighter
and added,
“Every single fight that he would win or lose, he’s like, ‘I might have one more,’”
—Alan Jouban, former UFC fighter
Jouban explained that Poirier’s retirement plans were repeatedly postponed because major fights kept coming his way. These include two lucrative bouts against Conor McGregor, a title shot against Charles Oliveira, and another opportunity against Islam Makhachev. Jouban noted that Poirier’s career reflected a genuine desire to step away but was sustained by consistently significant opportunities, saying,
“It felt to me he was trying to retire these last five years, he just couldn’t! The fights kept getting bigger, better, and more profitable.”
—Alan Jouban, former UFC fighter
Islam Makhachev Predicts a Victorious Send-Off for Poirier at UFC 318
Islam Makhachev, who defeated Poirier to retain the lightweight title in June 2024, weighs in with confidence on Poirier’s upcoming farewell fight. The Dagestani fighter expressed his belief that Poirier will not end his career on a losing note, forecasting a win for ‘The Diamond’ at UFC 318.
While Makhachev is cautious and respectful, he also shared the mutual regard they maintain, placing Poirier in the select group of fighters he regularly communicates with, alongside Alexander Volkanovski. He remarked,
“Dustin is a very good guy. From my opponents, I respect two guys: Volkanovski and Dustin. They’re really nice guys. I send them messages.”
—Islam Makhachev, UFC lightweight champion
Makhachev reaffirmed his view of Poirier’s readiness and determination for this final chapter, stating,
“I think Dustin will win. He told me this is his last fight, and I think he’s going to be ready.”
Significance of Poirier’s Career and What Lies Ahead
Dustin Poirier’s UFC farewell fight represents the closing chapter of an era marked by memorable bouts, including intense rivalries and title pursuits. His career has been distinguished by resilience, high-level competition, and large-scale paydays, especially those involving Conor McGregor. The decision to end his career in his home state highlights the personal importance of this event for him and the Louisiana MMA community.
As the fight approaches, fans and analysts alike will watch closely not only the outcome of UFC 318 but also the legacy Poirier leaves behind. His retirement sets the stage for potential shifts within the lightweight division and the UFC landscape in 2025 and beyond, as new contenders rise and veteran fighters adjust to the changing hierarchy.