UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping has shared his perspective on the immense pressure Dustin Poirier is experiencing as he prepares for his final fight at UFC 318. Set to take place this Saturday in New Orleans, Poirier will meet Max Holloway for the third time, seeking to end his career with another championship victory on the doorstep of his hometown.
Poirier, a Lafayette native, faces exceptional challenges beyond the usual demands of a championship bout. The fighter must navigate not only the physical and mental intensity of his upcoming match but also the emotional weight of retiring at just 36 years old, all while performing in front of family, friends, and hometown supporters.
Michael Bisping Explains the Unique Pressure Surrounding Poirier’s Farewell Fight
Throughout his career, Dustin Poirier has consistently competed against some of the UFC’s most elite fighters. Seven of his last ten bouts featured former UFC champions, demonstrating his familiarity with high-stakes contests. Nevertheless, Bisping notes that the pressure Poirier feels for UFC 318 stands apart from previous experiences.
In a recent YouTube preview, Bisping highlighted how fighting in front of a home crowd, coupled with the emotional significance of retirement, amplifies the pressure Poirier carries into the Octagon.
When he retires, at only 36 years old, there’s going to be a lot of things that Dustin Poirier can do. So is the motivation still there? Of course. It’s in New Orleans, the UFC is going there specifically for Dustin Poirier, and that’s incredible. And that could be the fairy tale farewell tour, but it brings a lot of pressure, anxiety,
Bisping said of Poirier.
The added pressure comes from having loved ones in attendance and the status of being a hometown hero, which increases the stakes for any performance. Bisping connected this experience to his own fights in England, where competing at home was emotionally taxing despite his unbeaten record on that soil.
But I was also undefeated in England as well, you do want to do the people justice, make them proud, and it pushes you in training camp.
To date, Poirier has only fought once in Louisiana, knocking out Yancy Medeiros with a body kick in June 2015. UFC 318 marks a significant return to his home state, as the promotion staged this event specifically to honor him, according to UFC CEO Dana White. This fight also represents Poirier’s second opportunity to claim the prestigious BMF belt, previously contested against Justin Gaethje at UFC 291.
A Daughter’s Heartfelt Message and Poirier’s Future Beyond Fighting
In the lead-up to UFC 318, Dustin Poirier’s eight-year-old daughter, Parker, penned a sincere message that has resonated with fans online. During the UFC 318 Countdown broadcast, she wished her father well and expressed relief at the prospect of him retiring from the rigors of fighting.
Following this career finale, Poirier is anticipated to shift toward a role as a UFC analyst. Yet, there remains the possibility he will explore other combat sports avenues such as boxing or grappling, maintaining his connection to competitive fighting in new forms.
As one of the UFC’s most respected and beloved figures, Dustin Poirier aims to create a lasting, memorable impact during his final fight at UFC 318, giving fans a memorable farewell moment.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dustin Poirier a millionaire?
A. By 2025, Poirier’s net worth is predicted to be $10 million. He wisely invests his money, earning significant endorsements from brands such as Venum. Additionally, he supports disadvantaged communities through his “The Good Fight Foundation.”