Poirier Announces Holloway Bout as Career Finale

Dustin Poirier, a former UFC Lightweight Champion, has formally declared that his forthcoming contest against Max Holloway at UFC 318 will mark the end of his outstanding career.

UFC officials verified on Friday that Holloway will defend his BMF title against Poirier as the headline event for UFC 318, which is slated for July 19 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.

This highly anticipated showdown will be the third time the two fighters have met in the ring and will serve as the farewell performance for the former interim lightweight champion.

Following the announcement, Holloway used social media platform X to share his thrill and gratitude.

Holloway’s Reaction

“Honored to be ‘The Diamond’s’ Last Dance,” Holloway stated in his post.

Poirier and Holloway initially fought at UFC 143 in February 2012, where Poirier defeated Holloway by submission in the first round during the Hawaiian’s UFC debut.

They rematched at UFC 236 in April 2019 for the interim lightweight title, with Poirier securing a unanimous decision victory after a difficult battle.

During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Poirier spoke about the emotional importance of concluding his career in front of his hometown fans.

Poirier’s Sentiments

“It’s going to be my final fight. I’m going to lay my gloves down in Louisiana, where it all started for me,” Poirier stated.

Poirier also lauded Holloway, conveying his appreciation for having him as his final adversary.

“Max is a legend. I said legends only. There’s not a better guy I can think of to fight in my retirement fight. I was his first fight in the UFC back in 2012, and he’s going to be my last fight in the UFC, so it’s an honor. He’s a legend, a former champion, an undisputed fighter, and the current BMF champion. We’re going to put on another war,” he concluded.