At UFC 318 in New Orleans, Dustin Poirier is set to face Max Holloway in a highly anticipated battle, marking Poirier’s final UFC appearance before retirement. This fight carries extra significance as Poirier, a fan favorite and longtime lightweight contender, is predicted to secure a victory by a respected UFC figure who has consistently backed Holloway in the past.
Chael Sonnen Breaks Tradition with New Prediction Favoring Poirier
Former UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen, who has previously supported Max Holloway through multiple predictions, recently shared his outlook for the UFC 318 main event on his YouTube channel. Known for accurately forecasting several of Holloway’s past wins — including the fight against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 and the anticipated victory over Ilia Topuria — Sonnen surprised many by siding with Poirier this time.
Dustin Poirier will, for the third time, beat Max Holloway,
Sonnen stated clearly. That is my official prediction.
He added praise for Holloway’s exceptional skills, emphasizing his respect for the Hawaiian fighter:
“I can’t praise Max enough. I think Max is just an all-time great. … I’ve never picked against Max, ever. I had Max over Ilia! I had Max over Gaethje! … I am picking against Max. I wasn’t against Max the second time he fought Dustin.”
It is not a commentary at all on Max’s skills. It is the fact that they’ve fought not once, but twice,
Sonnen explained.
“There is no point in (the first two fights) where you can identify something…there was nothing to lead a trained eye to believe if you do this again, you’re going to have a different outcome.”
They are even money, guys…so you guys are seeing something that I’m not. … Everything here that we’ve laid out all favors Dustin.
Max Holloway Faces the Prospect of a Third Straight Loss in a UFC Trilogy
If Sonnen’s forecast proves accurate during fight night, Max Holloway would record his third loss in a three-fight series within the UFC. Holloway’s previous trilogy was against Alexander Volkanovski, where he was defeated twice in close matches, including a dominant performance by Volkanovski at UFC 276 in Las Vegas in 2022.
With two prior fights against Poirier ending in a loss for ‘Blessed’ — including a stoppage and a decision — Holloway now confronts immense pressure to avoid a 0-3 run in another trilogy, especially as the stakes involve the highly coveted BMF title.
For Poirier, the stakes are equally significant as he looks to end an 18-year career on a victorious note in front of his home crowd in New Orleans. Over his legendary career, the Louisianan has proven himself against many top opponents and will aim to solidify his legacy with a decisive victory over a familiar rival.
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 managed his money, securing significant endorsements from brands like Venum. Through his organization, “The Good Fight Foundation,” he works to help communities in need.