Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has expressed that he would not be shocked if the UFC 318 main event ended in a knockout. This weekend, Max Holloway, the reigning BMF titleholder, will face Dustin Poirier for the third and final time in what Poirier has declared his retirement fight after a remarkable career featuring victories over numerous MMA legends. The fight will serve as the ultimate showdown between the two warriors, marking a pivotal moment in UFC history.
UFC 318 also highlights Holloway’s return to the lightweight division, a decision he made following a knockout defeat against Ilia Topuria at UFC 308. Since that loss, Holloway has committed to competing full-time at lightweight, fueling speculation about his future opponents and the exciting possibilities within the division.
Adesanya’s analysis favors Holloway for a KO finish
Max Holloway has made a significant impact at lightweight, notably delivering a stunning knockout of Justin Gaethje at the buzzer during UFC 300. However, when facing Dustin Poirier previously at UFC 236, Holloway struggled against Poirier’s size and boxing, resulting in a unanimous decision loss. Despite being down two fights in the trilogy, Adesanya believes Holloway still holds the capability to secure a highlight-reel knockout this time.
During a recent YouTube breakdown, Adesanya explained his view on the matchup, commenting on Poirier’s tendencies when fatigued and Holloway’s endurance advantage.
Dustin tends to when he gets tired, he reverts back to his old habits, which is flat-footedness,
Adesanya said in reference to the fight.
He added that Poirier sometimes throws without setting up punches, although he has improved. Adesanya pointed out,
“But again when he gets tired, Max doesn’t really get tired. Dustin was able to outwork him in that second fight when they fought for the belt, Dustin hurt Max…first time I’ve seen Max rocked.”
On Holloway’s chances this weekend, Adesanya stated,
But Max is trying to spoil the party with the Blessed Express. I’m going with Max in this fight,
and continued,
I think Max will be more defensively sound, he’s not going to get gun shy. But he’ll be smarter now with the weight, because Max has taken a lot of shots and the chin only holds up for so long. Lightweight Max, I still think can knock out Dustin Poirier, and this time could be different.
After suffering a loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 302, Poirier announced UFC 318 would be his last fight. Although some have speculated he might change his mind post-fight, Poirier appears committed to closing his career on this defining note.
Alexander Volkanovski supports Holloway’s bid for trilogy victory
Alexander Volkanovski, a former rival and three-time opponent of Holloway, has publicly backed Holloway to triumph over Poirier in their final encounter. Volkanovski defeated Holloway in all three matchups, which cements his understanding of Holloway’s abilities and challenges.
With this card mere hours away, Holloway aims to avenge his previous losses and position himself for a lightweight title opportunity. A victory over Poirier might even pave the way for a rematch against Ilia Topuria, who recently claimed the lightweight title at UFC 317.
The outcome of UFC 318 will determine whether Holloway can exact revenge and make a decisive statement or if Poirier will conclude his storied career with a lasting victory in one of the sport’s most anticipated trilogy finales.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dustin Poirier a millionaire?
A. By 2025, Poirier’s net worth is expected to be around $10 million. He has wisely managed his earnings, securing major sponsorships from companies such as Venum. Additionally, he supports charitable causes through his organization, “The Good Fight Foundation,” which focuses on helping communities in need.