Dustin Poirier UFC top fights have defined his legacy as one of the most fearless competitors in mixed martial arts history. As he prepares to face Max Holloway in what will be his final UFC bout at UFC 318 on July 19 in New Orleans, fans and pundits alike reflect on the remarkable battles that have shaped “The Diamond’s” storied career.
Over more than a decade in the cage, Dustin Poirier has faced numerous elite fighters including Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov, consistently demonstrating resilience and heart. His career features thrilling knockouts, gritty submissions, and high-octane wars that have left lasting impressions on the sport.
Memorable Matchup Against Jim Miller Showcases Poirier’s Tenacity
On February 11, 2017, at UFC 208, Poirier picked up a crucial victory following a tough knockout loss. Battling the seasoned Jim Miller, Poirier maintained relentless pressure through five intense rounds, ultimately securing a majority decision win. His pacing and determination against Miller’s durability helped prove that Poirier was back in form and ready for continued success.
Settling the Score with Eddie Alvarez at UFC on FOX 30
On July 28, 2018, at UFC on FOX 30, Poirier decisively avenged a prior controversial encounter by defeating Eddie Alvarez via technical knockout in the second round. After their first fight ended abruptly due to Alvarez’s illegal grounded knee, Poirier showcased his refined striking skills, dismantling Alvarez with precise and powerful boxing combinations, solidifying his status as a true lightweight contender.
Dominating Anthony Pettis Through Relentless Pressure
During UFC Fight Night 120 on November 11, 2017, Poirier unleashed a grind that overwhelmed former lightweight champion Anthony Pettis. The fight was intense and bloody from start to finish, culminating in a rare technical submission victory when Pettis was forced to tap out due to rib pressure from Poirier’s body triangle. This performance emphasized Poirier’s versatile skill set and ability to wear down elite opponents on the ground.
A Stunning Knockout Over Rising Star Benoit Saint-Denis
At UFC 299 on March 9, 2024, Poirier reminded everyone of his enduring power and skill by knocking out the promising French fighter Benoit Saint-Denis in the second round. Despite being 35 years old, Poirier’s performance earned Fight of the Night honors and demonstrated that he remains a force in the lightweight division.
A Gritty Showdown Against Islam Makhachev
Although Poirier ultimately lost by submission in the fifth round at UFC 302 on June 1, 2024, his notable performance against Islam Makhachev—considered one of the pound-for-pound best at the time—displayed his signature grit. He defended numerous takedowns and engaged in heavy striking exchanges, proving that regardless of the outcome, “The Diamond” always gives his all in the cage.
Wild and Emotional Victory Over Michael Chandler
On November 12, 2022, at UFC 281, Poirier faced Michael Chandler in a fiery battle fueled by intense rivalry and hard-hitting action. Surviving Chandler’s aggressive start and underhanded tactics, Poirier ultimately secured a technical submission in the third round. This fight was widely regarded as a Fight of the Year contender due to its relentless pace and drama.
Epic Slugfest With Justin Gaethje at UFC on FOX 29
Poirier’s clash with Justin Gaethje on April 14, 2018, delivered one of the most brutal exchanges in recent lightweight history. Trading heavy shots round after round, Poirier finally overwhelmed Gaethje in the fourth with a flurry of punches that forced the referee to stop the fight. The relentless intensity of this bout cemented both fighters’ reputations as top-tier warriors.
Avenging Loss to Conor McGregor in a Career-Defining Win
On January 23, 2021, at UFC 257, Poirier avenged his 2014 defeat by Conor McGregor with a stunning second-round technical knockout. This fight, held at lightweight, showcased Poirier’s evolution as he utilized powerful calf kicks and precise striking to dismantle McGregor, finishing the bout with a well-timed right hook. It remains one of the most significant victories of his career and elevated his profile among casual fans worldwide.
Winning the Interim Lightweight Title Against Max Holloway
During UFC 236 on April 13, 2019, Poirier faced Max Holloway for the interim lightweight championship. Although their featherweight bout years earlier saw Poirier submit Holloway, this rematch at lightweight was a closely contested battle highlighted by Poirier’s superior boxing. He earned a unanimous decision win and captured the interim title, stepping up amid Khabib Nurmagomedov’s injury-related absence.
Enduring a Five-Round War With Dan Hooker at UFC Vegas 4
In one of the most grueling lightweight fights during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, Poirier squared off with Dan Hooker on June 27, 2020, inside the UFC APEX. Without a live crowd, the intensity of every strike was crystal clear as Poirier overcame early challenges to outlast Hooker. This brutal fight showcased Poirier’s resilience and heart, with a unanimous decision victory cementing his standing as one of the division’s toughest competitors.
From his start as a tough featherweight to his legendary battles in the lightweight division, Dustin Poirier has carved out a legacy as one of the UFC’s most exciting and respected action fighters. As he prepares to retire in front of his hometown fans in New Orleans at UFC 318, “The Diamond” will leave the cage knowing that his career was filled with memorable and unforgettable moments that defined an era.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dustin Poirier a millionaire?
A. By 2025, Poirier’s net worth is expected to be $10 million. He has wisely spread his wealth through big endorsement deals with brands like Venum. Additionally, his “The Good Fight Foundation” focuses on helping underprivileged communities through charitable work.