Dustin Poirier’s road to retirement wasn’t paved exactly the way he envisioned. He didn’t get the Gaethje trilogy. He didn’t get to welcome Topuria to lightweight
But what he did get was something perhaps even better: a chance to close his career on his terms, against a man he respects, in front of a home-state crowd, with a belt that symbolizes everything he’s stood for.
When Poirier and Holloway step into the Octagon at UFC 318, it won’t just be another fight. It will be the culmination of a journey built on blood, sweat, and heart—a farewell fitting of a true diamond.
In a sport where fairytale endings are rare, Dustin Poirier is being offered a chance at one.
Thanks to the UFC’s respect, New Orleans’ enthusiasm, and Max Holloway’s willingness to share the spotlight, Poirier’s potential retirement bout is shaping up to be unforgettable.
As Sonnen rightly points out, this isn’t just another fight. It’s a symbol of what MMA, at its very best, can be: brutal, beautiful, and deeply human.
Also Read: Justin Gaethje Opens Up on Potential Trilogy Fight with Dustin Poirier and More
Table of Contents
Dustin Poirier’s Final Chapter: Choosing Respect Over Preference
In the unpredictable world of MMA, few careers have blended violence and grace like that of Dustin Poirier.1
Now, as he prepares to say goodbye, the “Diamond” wanted his final walk to the Octagon to carry meaning beyond the bright lights and booming crowds.
Initially envisioning a clash with either Justin Gaethje or rising star Ilia Topuria, Poirier found himself steered toward a different path.
The UFC, intent on a specific narrative, offered Max Holloway instead—a fighter Poirier shares history with and deep respect for.
The Dream Matchups That Weren’t Meant to Be
When Poirier began planning his retirement fight, he had two names circled in bold. First was Justin Gaethje, a man who had delivered one of the most memorable wars of Poirier’s career. Their series stands tied 1-1—a perfect setup for a trilogy with finality.
“I was asking Hunter [Campbell] for Gaethje, because we’re 1-1. I wanted to close out that trilogy,” Poirier revealed to MMA Junkie. Given their history, fans would have eagerly embraced a third installment, likely guaranteeing fireworks and closure.
The second option Poirier floated was Ilia Topuria. The newly crowned featherweight champion had announced plans to move up to lightweight, and Poirier saw an exciting opportunity to test himself against one of the division’s freshest threats.
“When [Ilia] said he was going to 155, I texted the UFC and said, ‘Hey, let me know what’s going on with this guy,’” Poirier recalled.
The UFC’s Vision: Max Holloway and a Story of Respect
Despite Poirier’s requests, the UFC had a different story in mind. Rather than entertain Topuria or Gaethje, the promotion zeroed in on Max Holloway, a fighter Poirier had already battled twice.
Although Poirier had other plans, he ultimately agreed, guided by his enduring respect for Holloway.
“That’s cool because I respect [Max] for my last fight,” Poirier admitted. The pairing not only resonates with history but carries an emotional weight few other matchups could replicate.
UFC 318 will mark their trilogy bout, this time with Holloway’s BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title on the line—an ironic but fitting symbol for Poirier’s no-quit attitude.
Revisiting Poirier vs. Holloway I and II
Poirier and Holloway’s shared history stretches over a decade. Their first encounter came in 2012 when both were raw prospects. Poirier, with superior grappling, submitted Holloway via mounted triangle armbar.
Their second fight, much bigger in magnitude, unfolded at UFC 236 in 2019 for the interim lightweight title. Over five brutal rounds, Poirier’s punching power overwhelmed Holloway’s volume striking.
Though Holloway showed immense heart, Poirier emerged victorious by unanimous decision, seizing gold and setting up a future title unification bout.
Both fights, different in context but equal in intensity, laid the groundwork for this third meeting—a clash where mutual admiration and competitive fire will collide once more.
Dustin Poirier: The BMF Title
A Fitting Prize for Poirier’s Finale
While symbolic, the BMF belt offers more than just a shiny trinket.2
It represents an ethos: toughness, resilience, and the willingness to meet any man in the center of the cage. Few embody that spirit more authentically than Dustin Poirier.
Capturing the BMF title would be a perfect send-off. After years of punishing wars against the likes of Conor McGregor, Dan Hooker, Eddie Alvarez, and Charles Oliveira, Poirier’s career deserves to be capped with a championship—however unofficial it may be.
The absence of a Gaethje trilogy fight will forever linger as one of MMA’s great “what if” scenarios. Their rivalry, built on violent exchanges and mutual destruction, begged for a concluding chapter.
The Last Dance pic.twitter.com/NnGXh5yp66
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) April 25, 2025
Why Gaethje vs. Poirier III Remains a “What If?”
Poirier’s win over Gaethje in 2018 remains one of his finest moments—an epic fourth-round TKO in a battle where both men seemed destined to fall.
Gaethje avenged that loss in 2023, knocking Poirier out with a head kick in the second round at UFC 291 to claim the BMF title. A trilogy was a logical and emotional culmination. Instead, fans must accept that chapter will remain unfinished.
Topuria, fresh off his featherweight conquest, represents the new generation. Brash, undefeated, and hungry, he is the kind of fighter who seeks—and often finds—violent resolutions inside the cage.
Poirier’s interest in fighting Topuria was surprising but revealed much about his character.
Rather than chasing a “safe” exit, Poirier was willing to gamble against a dangerous, unproven opponent. The UFC’s reluctance to entertain that matchup possibly stemmed from wanting to preserve Topuria’s ascent or ensuring Poirier’s farewell wasn’t spoiled by a brutal upset.
Dustin Poirier: Legacy Beyond Titles
Dustin Poirier’s legacy isn’t measured by belts alone. Though he won the interim lightweight title and challenged for the undisputed crown twice, it’s his body of work that immortalizes him.3
Wars with Anthony Pettis, Jim Miller, Gaethje, McGregor, Hooker, and Oliveira etched his name into MMA history.
His charity work through The Good Fight Foundation further broadened his impact beyond the Octagon, helping countless underprivileged families.
Poirier is a fighter’s fighter—and more importantly, a man who grew into a true ambassador for the sport.
Should UFC 318 indeed mark the final chapter, Poirier’s days of throwing punches for money will end. But his influence will endure. Coaching, philanthropy, commentary, or simply being a beacon for future fighters—Poirier will have no shortage of opportunities.
He leaves behind a blueprint: fight hard, respect harder, give back.
Homecoming in New Orleans: A Storybook Ending
UFC 318 in New Orleans carries deep emotional significance for Poirier. Born in Lafayette, Louisiana, Poirier has long carried the pride of his home state with him into every battle. Headlining in Louisiana for what could be his final fight feels like destiny aligning.
The fans will roar louder. The stakes will feel higher. And Poirier will have the chance to write his own ending, one rooted in the bayous and the bloodlines that shaped him.
Choosing Holloway, even by default, may ultimately prove perfect. The Hawaiian, much like Poirier, embodies grit, humility, and fighting spirit. Their styles mesh beautifully—volume vs. power, durability vs. finishing ability.
There will be no gamesmanship, no drama—just a fight between two warriors who respect each other deeply. In many ways, it’s the purest, most honorable way for Poirier to exit: a hard-fought war against a man who defines everything good about the sport.
Also Read: Mike Brown Discusses Dustin Poirier’s Retirement Delay and Next Big Opponent
Chael Sonnen Highlights UFC’s Respectful Gesture Toward Dustin Poirier Ahead of His Retirement Fight
In the world of mixed martial arts, where brutal competition often overshadows sentiment, respectful gestures are rare and noteworthy.
Recently, Chael Sonnen shed light on such a moment, revealing the depth of the UFC’s consideration for veteran fighter Dustin Poirier as he prepares for what could be his final appearance inside the Octagon.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chael Sonnen casually mentioned that he was aware of the Dustin Poirier vs. Max Holloway trilogy matchup weeks before it was officially announced.
This wasn’t just another fight announcement to Sonnen—it carried emotional weight. Knowing beforehand, he recognized the uniqueness of what the UFC was doing for Poirier. It was not merely about creating a headline-grabbing bout; it was about giving a respected warrior a meaningful sendoff.
Sonnen’s early knowledge underscored the rare backstage respect Poirier has earned over his long career.
A Hometown Farewell: Fighting in New Orleans
The decision to hold the fight in New Orleans adds another profound layer to Poirier’s retirement narrative.
For years, fighters have dreamt of headlining shows in their hometowns, but logistical hurdles and financial considerations often get in the way.
For Poirier, however, it is happening.
Sonnen noted that the city of New Orleans itself stepped up, offering substantial financial incentives to host the event.
This collaboration between the city and the UFC is not just a business deal; it symbolizes a communal celebration of Poirier’s journey from a scrappy Louisiana fighter to a global MMA star.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime homecoming—and perhaps a final farewell on the grandest stage possible.
Dustin Poirier’s Legacy
Dustin Poirier’s legacy is not built solely on wins and losses. It’s built on thrilling fights, resilience, charity work through his “Good Fight Foundation,” and a humble, relatable personality that has endeared him to millions.
He’s the fighter who battled adversity inside and outside the cage. He’s the underdog who became a champion in spirit, if not always in belts.
Sonnen’s admiration—and the UFC’s treatment—reflect a broader recognition of Poirier’s impact on the sport. He is not just another name on a long list of fighters; he is an icon of perseverance and heart.
What This Means for the UFC
By handling Poirier’s retirement fight with such care, the UFC sends a message to its roster: loyalty and integrity are noticed and, sometimes, rewarded.
Fighters take enormous risks for their promoters, often sacrificing their bodies and their health. Knowing that a promotion might repay that sacrifice with a gesture of respect—even if rare—can foster loyalty and goodwill among the athletes.
It’s good business, but it’s also good for the soul of the sport.
Dustin Poirier: Giveaway
Dustin Poirier will pick 5 winners randomly, each receiving a $100 USD TLF gift card and the giveaway runs for 16th April to 30th April.
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Sonnen’s Personal Reflections
Chael Sonnen has seen the sport from every angle: fighter, promoter, analyst. His reflections carry weight because he understands the often brutal, business-first reality of MMA.
For Sonnen to call out the UFC’s respectful handling of Poirier’s exit as special speaks volumes. It’s a reminder that even in a ruthless industry, moments of grace and gratitude can still exist.
Sonnen’s comments show that even the “bad guy” of MMA storytelling has a soft spot for stories like Poirier’s—stories where heart, loyalty, and legacy still matter.
Anticipating an Emotional Night
As fight night approaches, the emotions surrounding the event will only intensify. Whether Poirier wins or loses, the night promises to be a tribute to his incredible career.
Fans will tune in not just for the action, but to witness a meaningful, heartfelt moment in MMA history.
Max Holloway will surely bring the best out of Poirier, and Poirier will undoubtedly leave every ounce of himself in the cage, as he always has.
It will be a celebration of fighting spirit—and a fitting final chapter for one of the UFC’s most beloved warriors.
