Poirier Announces Final Fight Against Holloway at UFC 318

Former UFC Lightweight Champion Dustin Poirier has formally declared that his upcoming contest against Max Holloway at UFC 318 will mark the conclusion of his distinguished career.

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

This highly anticipated showdown will represent the third clash between the two competitors and serve as the farewell performance for the former interim lightweight titleholder.

Following the announcement, Holloway shared his enthusiasm and appreciation on social media platform X.

Holloway’s Response

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

Poirier and Holloway initially faced off at UFC 143 in February 2012, where Poirier secured a first-round submission victory over Holloway in the latter’s UFC debut.

Their second encounter occurred at UFC 236 in April 2019 for the interim lightweight title, with Poirier claiming a unanimous decision victory after a grueling 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 supporters.

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 remarked.

Poirier also lauded Holloway, expressing his gratitude for having him as his last 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.