Eppe Franklyne –
- Louisiana native Dustin Poirier will conclude his UFC career fighting Max Holloway for the UFC BMF title at UFC 318 in New Orleans.
- This fight marks the third meeting between Poirier and Holloway, with Poirier winning both previous bouts.
- Poirier is fighting close to home for the first time in years, making the event special for local fans.
- He enters the fight in peak condition, embracing sobriety and a disciplined diet leading up to the bout.
- Despite his strong history, Poirier is considered an underdog against Holloway, who aims to rebound after a recent loss.
Louisiana native Dustin Poirier is preparing for one last fight inside the UFC Octagon, making his farewell bout even more meaningful by returning to the Bayou State. On Saturday night, Poirier will headline UFC 318 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, taking on Max Holloway for the UFC BMF (Baddest Mother Fighter) title.
UFC 318 marks the return of the sport to New Orleans for the first time since 2015 and features five main card fights among 14 bouts overall. For Poirier, who hails from Lafayette, Louisiana, the fight carries a personal significance. Announced in April as his career finale, this bout offers local fans a rare opportunity to witness him compete in person.
“It’s a little surreal,” Poirier shared. “All the pressure and obligations are still there, but sometimes I remember this is the last time I’m doing this. Growing up without silver spoons, having fought worldwide, this being so close to home where people can just drive to see me, it’s very special.”
This fight is the third meeting between Poirier (30-9) and Holloway (26-8). Poirier won their first encounter by first-round submission in 2012 and secured a unanimous decision victory in 2019. Poirier describes the trilogy as a journey spanning over a decade, praising Holloway as a legend of the sport.
“I’m expecting another war,” Poirier said. “He was my debut in the UFC, and he is my last fight. Everything is happening at the right time.”
At 36, Poirier reports being in the best shape of his career, highlighting his commitment to sobriety and a clean, carnivore-inspired diet in recent months. This disciplined lifestyle has allowed him to enter fight week lighter and fitter than ever.
Despite his previous wins and hometown advantage, betting odds list Poirier as a +110 underdog. Holloway, coming off a knockout loss last October, is determined to spoil Poirier’s retirement.
“I’m here to play spoiler,” Holloway said. “He did me dirty before, so maybe I’ve got to do him dirty in his last fight. I can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been working on.”
As UFC 318 approaches, fans can anticipate a fiercely competitive finale for Poirier, capping off a distinguished career in the sport’s spotlight.
