As Dustin Poirier prepares to retire from MMA following his final UFC event, it is surprising to learn that he nearly ended his UFC career years earlier amid growing frustration. Before his career-defining bout with Max Holloway in 2019, Poirier publicly expressed a desire to be released from his UFC contract due to dissatisfaction with the fights being offered to him.
After his second fight against Eddie Alvarez in mid-2018, Poirier was slated to face Nate Diaz at UFC 230, but the matchup fell apart. Poirier initially withdrew from the co-main event when he learned Diaz would no longer be his opponent, leading to increased frustration with the promotion’s direction for his career. In response, he took to social media with a stark message:
“These guys should just release me.”
Remarkably, just two days after making this statement, Poirier was booked against Max Holloway at UFC 236 in Atlanta for the interim lightweight title, a fight that proved pivotal for his legacy.
Reflecting on this period during an interview on The MMA Hour, Poirier admitted the tension with the UFC was at its peak.
“Probably when I was asking to be released, before I fought Max in 2019 in Atlanta,”
Poirier said.
“I don’t remember exactly but they were offering fights that I didn’t want. I don’t know exactly but I was asking to be released then. I ended up getting the Max fight, so it worked out.”
“Yeah [I was unhappy], and the people they were offering me, where my contract was. I don’t remember exactly but that was the closest I was to being [done].”
—Dustin Poirier, UFC fighter
Career Highlights Following Victory Over Max Holloway
Poirier’s win over Max Holloway not only earned him the interim lightweight belt but also elevated his UFC standing significantly. Although he ultimately did not unify the lightweight title, this victory marked the beginning of a remarkable stretch in his career.
Following UFC 236, Poirier delivered several standout performances, securing notable wins against Dan Hooker and Conor McGregor, adding to an already impressive résumé. These achievements helped him cement his status as one of the premier lightweights in UFC history.
Despite some setbacks along the way, Poirier’s determination and skill were on full display, making the legacy he leaves behind a compelling story of resilience and achievement.
Longstanding Challenges Within the Promotion
Throughout his career, Poirier faced multiple frustrations regarding scheduling and opponent selections, from matchups falling through to misunderstandings about his fights. Most recently, he publicly expressed confusion over his fight with Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 299, initially denying its occurrence before eventually accepting it.
These tensions illustrate the ongoing complexities Poirier experienced in navigating his UFC career, making his accomplishments even more meaningful given the obstacles.
Significance of Poirier’s Departure from the UFC
As Poirier steps away from the sport following his final bout in New Orleans, arranged by the UFC to ensure a memorable conclusion to his career, fans and fellow fighters alike recognize his contributions and struggles. His near exit in 2019 shows the fragile relationship athletes can have with promotions, especially when career-defining opportunities seem uncertain.
Poirier’s journey, marked by highs and lows, reflects the perseverance required to reach the top in mixed martial arts. His legacy will likely inspire fighters who face similar challenges navigating their careers within major promotions.