Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier are set to clash this Saturday in the main event of UFC 318 for the symbolic BMF title, drawing immense attention from fans eager to witness two dynamic fighters face off once more. Despite the huge hype for the Dustin Poirier UFC BMF title fight, heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall has openly questioned the authenticity of the belt, casting doubts on its significance within the sport.
Holloway, who secured the BMF title last year by knocking out Justin Gaethje at UFC 300, is preparing for his first defense of the belt. In a recent UFC on TNT interview, Aspinall expressed skepticism about the BMF title’s value compared to traditional world championships.
You want my honest opinion. It’s a title, but it’s not a world championship. So, what are we doing? These guys don’t need a title. They are two legends of the Sport. We don’t really need a title on the line.
Tom Aspinall via UFC on TNT
The BMF title was originally introduced by the UFC in 2019 for a fight between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz. Unlike regular championship belts governed by rankings, the BMF belt honors fighters celebrated for their toughness, entertainment value, and warrior spirit. The UFC has marketed this title as a special attraction, with mainstream attention amplified by personalities like The Rock presenting the belt.
Despite its popularity, the BMF title does not influence official divisional rankings or championship lineages, which has led to confusion among fans and critics regarding its true sporting importance. Nevertheless, the UFC continues to feature BMF title fights to showcase epic matchups between legendary fighters known for their aggressive styles and fan engagement.
Max Holloway’s Determination to Relive His UFC 300 Breakthrough
Max Holloway is renowned for his aggressive ‘stand and bang’ approach, engaging opponents in relentless striking battles inside the octagon. This style was exemplified at UFC 300, when Holloway boldly invited Justin Gaethje to trade blows, culminating in a brutal and memorable knockout finish that captivated fans worldwide. That iconic moment cemented Holloway’s status as a warrior and created high expectations for his future fights.
During UFC 308, Ilia Topuria challenged Holloway to engage immediately in the same manner, but Holloway chose to fight cautiously despite eventually being knocked out. Now, ahead of the bout with Poirier, Holloway has vowed that if Poirier is willing to stand and trade, he will not hesitate to do the same, promising fans an electrifying contest.
With Dustin, he’s a point down guy, too. So I wouldn’t be surprised if he started it, if he initiated it. If we get to the fifth round with the 10 seconds left, I think he might beat me to it and point down first… You and I know we live in a sport where moments are king. If I can go out there and I can have a UFC 300 moment again, come here July 19, who’s to say I’m not right there for an undisputed title shot again.
Max Holloway via MMA Fighting
Holloway recognizes the symbolic meaning of this fight for Poirier, who has announced that this will be his final fight before retirement. He understands the responsibility to give Poirier an unforgettable farewell performance and sees this fight as an opportunity to finally avenge two previous losses suffered against Poirier inside the octagon.
The matchup represents a major moment for both fighters: Poirier aiming to end his career on a high note with the BMF belt and Holloway pushing to recapture his place among the sport’s elite and possibly secure a future shot at an undisputed title.
Background and Controversy Surrounding the BMF Belt
The BMF title’s inception was a novel concept to celebrate the most ferocious and fearless fighters regardless of divisional rank or championship status. Its first contest between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz drew massive attention and became a cultural moment for the UFC, largely due to the belt’s unique identity and mainstream star involvement.
However, unlike the universally recognized world championship belts that affect rankings and title lineages, the BMF belt carries no official sanction or long-term championship implications. This has caused friction among fighters and fans debating whether such symbolic belts elevate the sport or dilute its competitive structure. Tom Aspinall’s comments highlight this ongoing debate within the UFC community.
Still, the UFC leverages the BMF title to package high-stakes, action-packed fights between fan-favorite athletes, which helps maintain strong viewer interest and marketability. The forthcoming Holloway vs. Poirier fight exemplifies this model, bridging entertainment with intense competition for a belt that represents more attitude than conventional championship pedigree.
The Anticipation and Stakes of UFC 318’s Main Event
With the fight days away, anticipation continues to build around the clash between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier. Both fighters bring rich legacies and distinct fighting styles that promise an exciting, fast-paced showdown. Holloway’s promise to engage standing and trade punches aligns with his reputation, while Poirier has consistently demonstrated durability and power throughout his career.
This bout will not only decide the symbolic BMF champion but also serve as Poirier’s final fight before retirement, adding emotional weight and significance. Holloway aims to use this fight as a springboard back to title contention, especially if he delivers the kind of memorable performance fans witnessed at UFC 300.
This event sets the stage for a memorable UFC chapter, blending legacy, rivalry, and spectacle around the Dustin Poirier UFC BMF title fight, with implications that could influence future title shots and fighter retirements within the sport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dustin Poirier a millionaire?
A. By 2025, Poirier is expected to have a net worth of $10 million. He has invested his money wisely, earning major endorsements from brands such as Venum. Additionally, he is involved in charitable activities through “The Good Fight Foundation,” which supports underprivileged communities.