A Legendary Career Comes to a Close

In a landmark announcement shaking the MMA world, Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier confirmed that his upcoming bout against Max “Blessed” Holloway at UFC 318 will be his final professional fight. Scheduled for July 19, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, this historic trilogy matchup will crown the new BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) champion.

Ending Where It Began

Poirier shared the news on The Pat McAfee Show, emphasizing the emotional significance of concluding his career in Louisiana, his home state. “It’s going to be my final fight,” Poirier said. “I’m going to lay the gloves down in Louisiana where it all started for me. The journey began there, and I’m honored to have the UFC and the state of Louisiana aligned to make this possible.”

Trilogy with Holloway: A Decade in the Making

The highly anticipated fight marks the third meeting between Poirier and Holloway. Poirier emerged victorious in their first fight at UFC 143 in 2012 by submission and again at UFC 236 in 2019 via unanimous decision, capturing the interim lightweight belt. The UFC 318 showdown will provide Holloway with a shot at redemption.

Career Highlights and Legacy

Dustin Poirier’s storied career includes victories over renowned fighters such as Conor McGregor, Justin Gaethje, and Michael Chandler. Although the undisputed lightweight title eluded him, notably in his recent submission loss to Islam Makhachev in June 2024, Poirier remains a revered figure in the sport.

Holloway’s Quest for Redemption

For Max Holloway, the matchup is more than just revenge; it’s about cementing his legacy in the lightweight division. After capturing the BMF title by dramatically knocking out Gaethje at UFC 300, Holloway faced setbacks, including a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria in a featherweight title bout. Now fully committed to competing at lightweight, Holloway sees UFC 318 as an opportunity to regain momentum.

An Epic Finale at UFC 318

With both fighters eager to leave a lasting impression, UFC 318 promises to be a memorable event filled with intensity, emotion, and history. As Dustin Poirier prepares to hang up his gloves, MMA fans worldwide are set for an unforgettable conclusion to an epic rivalry.

Stay tuned for detailed coverage and insights on this historic event on the CFC App.