In his retirement fight at UFC 318, Dustin Poirier faces Max Holloway in their trilogy showdown. Poirier aims to go out with a win, while Holloway seeks redemption. Full preview and significance.

Trilogy’s Climactic Clash in New Orleans

The Smoothie King Center in New Orleans hosted a momentous night as Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier squared off with Max Holloway for a third time in the BMF title clash at UFC 318—marking Poirier’s swan song in the sport.

📅 Previous Meetings:

UFC 143 (Feb 2012): Poirier submitted Holloway via triangle armbar—Holloway’s only career submission loss.
UFC 236 (Apr 2019): Poirier claimed the interim lightweight title with a dominant five-round decision over a prime Holloway.

Their UFC 318 Bout: Stakes That Transcend Title

This final chapter wasn’t just about the BMF belt—it was about two generations of fighters at different stages:

Poirier, aged 36, returning to New Orleans for his final fight, completes a storied 14-year UFC run.
Holloway, undefeated by Poirier, held a 13-fight winning streak during their 2019 meeting; now he stepped in seeking final redemption.

In-Ring Dynamics & Fight Narrative

While official scores are still pending, Poirier’s path to victory has historically hinged on:

His power punches—notably, at UFC 236, his repeated heavy blows rocked Holloway.
Strategic grappling and clinch control, especially evident in later rounds.

Holloway, famed for relentless striking volume—holding UFC’s record for most significant strikes (3,457)—entered poised to counter with pressure and precision.

Significance Beyond the Octagon

Poirier’s swan song: Finalizing a legacy defined by grit, heart, and allegiance to country and community.
Holloway’s redemption arc: A chance to level the trilogy score, adding emotional weight to an already engrossing rivalry.

What Comes After?

Expect a ceremonial finish, post-fight reflections, and a shift in focus for both men:

Poirier is likely to emerge from retirement, but with an unmatched record and legacy.
Holloway, whether victorious or not, remains a mainstay among the sport’s elite.

Quick Facts

Detail	Highlights
Event	UFC 318: Poirier vs. Holloway III
Location	Smoothie King Center, New Orleans
Significance	Poirier’s final fight: trilogy rubber match for BMF title
Past Results	Poirier leads 2–0: 1 triangle submission (UFC 143), 1 unanimous decision (UFC 236)
Fighting Styles	Poirier: Power, grappling, clinch control. Holloway: High-volume striking
Legacy	Poirier: UFC legend and interim lightweight champ
	Holloway: Record-setting striker, former BMF and Featherweight champ

Whether he leaves with a win or decides it’s time to hang up his gloves, Dustin Poirier’s career—shaped by legendary performances and unforgettable rivalries—will be remembered as one of the most compelling journeys in modern MMA.

For Max Holloway, this trilogy completes a defining narrative arc and sets him free to pursue more championship dreams. Regardless of the result, UFC 318 serves as an emotional and fitting finale for one of the sport’s most beloved figures, and a testament to the indelible mark both fighters have left on MMA history.

Dustin Poirier (“The Diamond”)

Born: January 19, 1989, in Lafayette, Louisiana, USA
Nationality: American
Weight Class: Lightweight (formerly Featherweight)
Style: Southpaw striker with strong boxing, grit, and jiu-jitsu skills

Career Highlights:

Began his MMA career in 2009; joined the UFC in 2011
Known for his aggressive style and heart in the cage
Won the interim UFC Lightweight Championship in 2019 by defeating Max Holloway
Defeated stars like Conor McGregor (twice), Justin Gaethje, and Dan Hooker
Involved in several “Fight of the Year” candidates
Retired (or semi-retired) after UFC 318 in 2025 with a legacy of resilience and humility
Outside the cage, he runs The Good Fight Foundation, supporting underserved communities in Louisiana

Max Holloway (“Blessed”)

Born: December 4, 1991, in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
Nationality: American (Hawaiian/Samoan descent)
Weight Class: Featherweight (occasional Lightweight)
Style: High-volume striker, elite cardio, granite chin

Career Highlights:

Debuted in the UFC in 2012 at age 20
Became the UFC Featherweight Champion in 2017, defeating José Aldo
Defended the featherweight title successfully three times
Holds UFC record for most significant strikes landed (3,457+)
Known for epic wars with Volkanovski, Ortega, and Poirier
Beloved for his calm personality, “just scrap” attitude, and fan-friendly fighting style
Still active and a perennial contender in both divisions

Together, Poirier and Holloway represent the warrior spirit of modern MMA—both fierce competitors inside the Octagon and respected, humble figures outside of it.

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