UFC President Dana White has officially confirmed that Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier will face each other for the third time on July 10 at UFC 264 in Las Vegas. This announcement ends months of uncertainty and online disputes between the two fighters, who have developed a heated rivalry within the UFC. The highly anticipated trilogy fight will unfold at the T-Mobile Arena, marking a significant return to full capacity events amid ongoing fan excitement.
Background of the McGregor-Poirier Rivalry and Lead-Up to the Trilogy
Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor first met inside the Octagon in 2014, where McGregor secured a quick knockout victory. However, Poirier managed to reverse the outcome in their January 2021 rematch by stopping McGregor in the second round with a series of punches. This win served as a form of redemption for Poirier, who had been floored early in their initial encounter. Both fighters expressed interest in a third showdown, but the path to scheduling the trilogy was marred by disputes and delayed negotiations.
After the rematch, Poirier stated his interest in facing Nate Diaz, another prominent UFC figure, but eventually McGregor vs. Poirier 3 emerged as the most likely fight. Despite this, the bout faced disruption when McGregor publicly announced in April 2021 that the fight was off, citing Poirier’s alleged failure to fulfill a $500,000 charitable donation promise. McGregor took to social media with dismissive remarks, signaling his intention to fight someone else on July 10.
UFC President Dana White Intervenes to Secure the Trilogy
Dana White quickly stepped in to resolve the situation, reassuring fans and the UFC community that the trilogy fight would proceed as planned in front of a full crowd. White released a statement highlighting the significance of the event for Las Vegas, signaling the return of the city’s vibrant fight scene. The UFC Chief called the upcoming card a historic moment and emphasized the magnitude of having 20,000 fans in attendance to witness the third McGregor-Poirier clash.
I am so happy to finally be able to say: Vegas is back,
—Dana White, UFC President
Ladies and gentlemen, that’s 20,000 fans, and this card will be headlined by the third fight between Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor. Tickets go on sale this week.
—Dana White, UFC President
Dustin Poirier Chooses Trilogy Fight Over Title Opportunity
Prior to the trilogy confirmation, Poirier declined a chance to compete for the vacant lightweight title following Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement. According to Dana White, Poirier opted to pursue the rematch against McGregor, a decision that reflects both strategic ambition and respect for the rivalry’s significance. White praised Poirier’s focused approach, underscoring the fight’s importance for Poirier’s career trajectory.
Dustin wants the [McGregor] rematch,
—Dana White, UFC President
It’s smart, that’s what he should do. He should take the rematch, take that fight. It’s a big fight for him. [The] kid’s worked hard his whole life, his whole career to be in a position like this and that’s the fight you take.
—Dana White, UFC President
We’ve been in positions like this before with others who have made the mistake of not taking that fight, and it’s the biggest mistake of their lives.
—Dana White, UFC President
Aftermath of UFC 264 Fight and Poirier’s Current Status
At UFC 264, Poirier once again claimed victory as McGregor sustained a broken leg at the end of the first round, cutting the fight short. Since then, McGregor has recorded two wins and two losses, while Dustin Poirier has maintained his reputation as a formidable contender. Poirier is set to headline UFC 318 with a fight against Max Holloway in what Dana White describes as Poirier’s “last dance” in the Octagon, recognizing his global influence as a cult fighter.
Upcoming UFC 318 Event Featuring Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway
Dustin Poirier’s upcoming fight against Max Holloway at UFC 318 in New Orleans is highly anticipated. Poirier holds two previous victories over Holloway but maintains a forward focus, refusing to rely on past successes. Holloway views this bout as an opportunity to generate another memorable moment that could secure a title shot against Ilia Topuria, the reigning lightweight champion. The bout carries strong implications for the UFC lightweight division and both fighters’ careers.
Both athletes approach this fight with a serious mindset, knowing the outcome could determine their chances for future championship contention or indicate a farewell moment for Poirier.
Details on UFC 318 and Broader Impact of Trilogy Confirmation
UFC 318 will be a pivotal event in July, placing Dustin Poirier under the spotlight for what is believed to be his final fight at this level. The confirmation of the McGregor-Poirier trilogy fight after months of tension highlights the complexities and drama behind arranging top-tier UFC matchups. For fans, the silent struggle and eventual resolution between McGregor and Poirier fuel the rivalry’s intensity and underscore the personal stakes involved.
As the UFC continues to navigate the post-pandemic landscape, launching events with full audiences like UFC 264 and UFC 318 signals a return to normalcy, satisfying the sport’s loyal global fan base. For Dustin Poirier, the trilogy fight and subsequent matches not only define his legacy but also emphasize the unwavering competition and drama inherent to the UFC.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dustin Poirier a millionaire?
A. By 2025, Poirier’s net worth is predicted to be around $10 million. He has invested his money wisely, earning significant endorsements from companies such as Venum. Additionally, he contributes to charity with his “The Good Fight Foundation,” which helps support needy communities.