Written by Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier’s last dance is almost here.
On Saturday evening in New Orleans, Poirier makes the walk for the final time in his career, when he challenges Max Holloway for the ‘BMF’ title in the main event of UFC 318. The entire event is built around Poirier’s pending retirement, and at the ceremonial weigh-ins on Friday, “The Diamond” embraced the raucous hometown crowd that showed out to support him.
“I love you all,” Poirier said. “I love you, Louisiana. What an honor to lay the gloves down where it all started, here in Louisiana. It’s an honor. Thank you for following my journey. I love you all.”
Beloved by all @DustinPoirier is ready for the last trip to the Octagon in front of his home state!
[ #UFC318 | LIVE TOMORROW 10pmET on @ESPNPlus PPV ] pic.twitter.com/G2iIQrPUOZ
— UFC (@ufc) July 18, 2025
There’s no beef between Poirier and Holloway, with both men being highly complimentary of each other in the build to this fight. That carried over to the final faceoff, where they shared a respectful staredown. That being said, Holloway is nonetheless ready to play his part as the antagonist in Saturday’s dramatic career finale, embracing the boos the crowd lavished upon him.
Two favorites ready for their trilogy @BlessedMMA vs @DustinPoirier
[ #UFC318 | LIVE TOMORROW 10pmET on @ESPNPlus PPV ] pic.twitter.com/zXNmKHZfD3
— UFC (@ufc) July 18, 2025
“Get ready with the boos tomorrow,” Holloway said. “I’m going to play spoiler tomorrow. Tune in. It’s going to be a hell of a fight.”
Holloway and Poirier have fought twice before, first back in 2012 and then in 2019. Poirier won both matchups, the latter earning him the interim lightweight title. He hopes to end his career with one final victory over “Blessed,” while Holloway looks to avoid falling to 0-3 in the rivalry.
UFC 318 goes down at Smoothie King Arena in New Orleans with the pay-per-view main card kicking off at 10 p.m. ET.