Dustin Poirier is set to compete in his final UFC fight this Saturday, headlining UFC 318 in his hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. The event will feature Poirier facing Max Holloway in a significant BMF title matchup, marking the end of Poirier’s nearly decade-long career in the promotion.
As Poirier settled into his AirBNB in New Orleans early this week, the reality of retirement began to sink in for the former interim lightweight champion, who holds a record approaching 32 UFC fights. During media day on Wednesday, he acknowledged the emotional weight of this moment as he prepares to close this chapter of his life.
But like I said, I think it’s just the right time. I don’t want to get retired from this sport. I don’t want it to chew me up. I want to walk away. I don’t want it to retire me.
—Dustin Poirier, UFC Fighter
Third Chapter of a Longstanding Rivalry Against Max Holloway
The matchup with Max Holloway completes a trilogy between the two fighters, who first met in 2012 during Poirier’s early UFC career and Holloway’s debut inside the octagon. Poirier won both previous fights, including a high-stakes interim lightweight title bout about seven years ago. However, Holloway currently possesses the BMF title, adding extra significance to their upcoming clash.
In their latest faceoff ahead of UFC 318, Poirier remarked on Holloway’s noticeable physical growth since their last fight. After a staredown at a landmark church in New Orleans, he expressed a mix of nostalgia and pride about finishing his career in front of a familiar local audience.
It was just a cool feeling, cool moment to do it in a place where me and my family have such great memories. Amazing that it’s here in New Orleans, in front of that church. It’s just an incredible way to end this thing.
—Dustin Poirier, UFC Fighter
Focused Training and Lifestyle Changes for Peak Performance
Heading into what he calls his final fight, Poirier committed to an exceptionally disciplined training regimen. He abstained from alcohol and marijuana for over 90 days, a longer period of sobriety than in previous camps, allowing him to sharpen his physical and mental focus.
Not that I didn’t check all those boxes in every other training camp, I just really, really focused on 90-something days completely sober,
—Dustin Poirier, UFC Fighter
He also adjusted his diet significantly, avoiding popular fad diets but following a mostly carnivore-style nutrition plan for four to five months. His meals consisted mainly of meat and berries with occasional vegetables, which helped him reach the lightest and healthiest condition of his UFC career.
For probably four months, five months, I’ve been eating just I guess kind of like a carnivore,
Just meat and berries. A little vegetables here and there. And dude I’m in the best shape, this is the lightest I’ve ever shown up to Fight Week. Incredible. So yeah, I did everything right.
—Dustin Poirier, UFC Fighter
Meaning of a Home Crowd for Poirier’s Farewell
Poirier values the chance to fight in front of his hometown crowd, something that many of his supporters have been eager to witness since he announced his retirement plans. Fighting in New Orleans allows friends, family, and local fans who may have missed his bouts overseas to see him compete live for the last time.
I don’t come from a place with silver spoons, a lot of money. I don’t come from that. So all the travels and fights that I’ve had all over the world, a lot of people don’t get to go. A lot of people missed out on some big moments in person,
So to be so close to home where they can hop in their car and drive to New Orleans, and have people in the arena— fans, family, friends that never got to see me compete live, for this last one, it’s super special.
—Dustin Poirier, UFC Fighter
What Lies Ahead After UFC 318
Poirier’s final fight symbolizes more than just the end of his professional competition; it encapsulates his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated UFC veteran. By concluding his career at home against a familiar rival, Poirier not only fulfills personal and professional milestones but also sets a respectful standard for athletes choosing to exit the sport on their own terms.
The outcome of UFC 318 will not only mark the closing chapter of Poirier’s fighting career but may also influence future title landscapes and the legacies of both fighters. Fans and commentators alike anticipate an intense fight that honors a career built with resilience, discipline, and heart.
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 wisely spread out his earnings by signing major endorsement deals with brands like Venum. Additionally, he is involved in philanthropy through his organization, “The Good Fight Foundation,” which supports disadvantaged communities.