On July 27, 2025, Dustin Poirier officially ended his nearly 17-year MMA career during UFC 318 in Louisiana, the state where he began his professional journey in 2009. Despite hopes for a triumphant farewell in front of his home crowd, the event took an unexpected turn when reigning BMF champion Max Holloway defeated Poirier, ending his title ambitions but not diminishing his legacy.

Although Poirier left the octagon without the championship belt, his status as a beloved fighter remained unquestioned. Celebrated by millions of fans and supported by celebrities such as Lil Wayne, Poirier was honored as a legend in the sport. Currently, he is enjoying a restful break with his pregnant wife and daughter, delaying his transition into a potential broadcast career with ESPN as he prioritizes family life.

Viral tribute from Japanese entertainer Kazuhisa Uekusa

More than a week after his retirement announcement, tributes continue to pour in for Dustin Poirier. One of the most notable came from Kazuhisa Uekusa, a Japanese comedian known for his viral tableclothd trick videos, who shared a special message to the MMA fighter. Uekusa, who commands over 8 million followers across social media platforms, posted a video on Poirier’s Instagram story featuring his signature stunt.

After performing the trick, Uekusa revealed a large sheet of paper with the message,

“Congratulations Dustin! We are so proud of you. Diamonds are forever. We love you.”

This unique tribute caught the attention of fans globally, highlighting Poirier’s widespread impact beyond just the MMA community.

Interestingly, Uekusa follows UFC commentator Joe Rogan on social media, and Rogan reciprocates the follow. This connection shows Uekusa’s engagement with UFC culture extended beyond casual fandom, exemplified further by his recent meeting with NBA star DeAndre Jordan.

Dustin Poirier reflects on Joe Rogan’s absence from his final fight

Joe Rogan, a cornerstone of UFC broadcasting for over three decades, was noticeably absent from UFC 318, where Poirier fought his likely final bout. Rogan has been present for iconic moments in UFC history, including calls for fighters such as Khabib Nurmagomedov, Jon Jones, and Conor McGregor. His absence during Poirier’s farewell was felt deeply by many fans who expected him to help mark the occasion.

Rogan was on a family vacation in Europe at the time, creating a bittersweet note for the event. When asked about Rogan not being present during his last walk to the octagon, Poirier said,

“Closing it out with Rogan would’ve been cool, but also, DC, the legend he is, the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame he is, everything he brings is awesome to be able to talk to him when it’s all said and done. [He’s] another Louisiana boy in New Orleans, so it’s special.”

This comment recognized both Rogan’s importance in UFC history and the significance of DC’s presence as a fellow Louisiana native, underscoring Poirier’s reflective attitude about his retirement experience.

What lies ahead for Dustin Poirier after retiring from MMA

With the curtain closed on his fighting career, Poirier has made it clear that he does not foresee any immediate return to the Octagon. Prioritizing his growing family, especially with a second child on the way, he intends to embrace fatherhood and the quieter aspects of life over the coming months. His plans to explore a second career as a UFC analyst and commentator are currently on hold until his personal circumstances allow.

Despite the unexpected ending to his final fight, Dustin Poirier’s legacy as “The Diamond” shines brightly within the MMA community. His perseverance and contributions have earned him a place among the sport’s greats, and his story continues to inspire fans worldwide. The outpouring of affection from artists, celebrities, and fighters alike demonstrates the profound respect he commands beyond the cage.

As Poirier transitions to this next phase of life, the MMA world remains hopeful and eager to witness his future contributions to the sport in new capacities.