Dustin Poirier, a celebrated figure in mixed martial arts and former UFC interim lightweight champion, is set to make his 32nd UFC Octagon appearance this week at UFC 318. Marking his retirement fight, Poirier will face reigning BMF titleholder Max Holloway in what has been dubbed his ‘Last Dance.’ The bout, held at the Smoothie King Center, carries high emotions and significance for Poirier as he looks to close out a storied career in the 155-pound division.
With the spotlight on Poirier’s UFC retirement fight, emotions have been running high. During a recent backstage segment with ESPN MMA’s Brett Okamoto, Poirier became visibly moved while reading fan letters. Mike Tyson’s boxing coach, Teddy Atlas, has advised Poirier to suppress his emotions and approach this final contest as a routine challenge rather than an emotional farewell.
Teddy Atlas Advises Poirier on Managing Emotions for UFC 318
Teddy Atlas, who has long admired Poirier’s achievements and toughness inside the cage, offered insight on how Poirier should handle the mental aspects of his retirement fight. Atlas emphasized the importance of perspective, given Poirier’s extensive experience fighting under pressure throughout his career.
“That’s something that is very difficult to really digest, but it’s the only thing you can tell them, …For now, it’s just gotta be another fight…You’ve done this now 50 times; We know it’s the last one. [And] We understand the emotions that are gonna be involved. But it’s something you’ve done 50 times and [done it] well…You’ve done it great. Go do it great again. Don’t bring in the last fight too much into it, [fighting] at home, and all the emotions, all that…”
—Teddy Atlas, Boxing Coach
Atlas recognizes the challenges Poirier faces but reaffirmed that the fundamentals remain unchanged despite the emotional stakes. Accompanying Atlas in discussion, former ESPN MMA analyst Ryan Clark acknowledged the added dimension of the fight‘s location and the intense preparations Poirier has undergone. Daniel Cormier, another UFC legend and analyst, has also expressed a deep emotional response to Poirier’s final fight.
Recent reports indicate Poirier is physically in prime condition, having successfully made weight with ease. If he secures a victory and claims the BMF title, questions remain about Holloway’s next moves and potential challengers for Poirier’s successor, making the outcome of UFC 318 highly anticipated.
Significance of UFC 318’s BMF Title Bout
The bout between Poirier and Holloway is more than a retirement fight; it is the fourth defense of the symbolic BMF (Baddest Motherf*****r) title, a belt imbued with cultural weight since its inception. Originating in 2019 through a heated contest between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz, the title has become a fan favorite despite divided opinions on its relevance.
Holloway, the current BMF champion, won the title last year at UFC 300 by defeating Justin Gaethje and will defend it at UFC 318. Poirier aims to end his career on a high note by dethroning Holloway and retiring as the BMF champion, a feat that would cement his legacy.
A Welterweight Contender Calls for BMF Title Retirement with Poirier
Among the voices surrounding UFC 318 is welterweight contender Joaquin Buckley, who stated on his Brick Brothers Podcast that the BMF title should conclude with Poirier’s retirement fight. Buckley supports Poirier’s chances of victory and believes this event offers a fitting finale for the BMF championship lineage.
“To be honest with you, I like that this fight is happening, ….[And] more than likely [he; Poirier] is gonna win again, and it’s gonna end this whole BMF thing and title…Sure…The BMF thing needs to retire with Dustin Poirier. … I think the BMF title, it needs to end. And I think it’s gonna end with Dustin Poirier. This is a good ending [to BMF]…THE only way it goes.”
—Joaquin Buckley, Welterweight Contender
The future of the BMF title remains uncertain as discussions continue about its place within the broader UFC championship structure. While some see it as a prestigious accolade, others view it as more symbolic, causing mixed reactions among fans and pundits alike.
What Comes Next: Legacy and UFC’s Future Post-Poirier
Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight represents the culmination of a decade-long run through the lightweight ranks, including memorable victories against top-tier opponents such as Conor McGregor. His retirement will mark the end of an era for Louisiana’s standout fighter and leave a lasting impact on the UFC landscape.
Should Poirier retain or capture the BMF title, he will exit the sport holding a significant honor, setting a standard for future champions. Meanwhile, Max Holloway’s career trajectory will also pivot, depending on the result.
The intense buildup to UFC 318 highlights the emotional and competitive stakes involved, with coaches, fans, and fighters gearing up for an unforgettable event in the Smoothie King Center’s Octagon.