Max Holloway Shines in Dustin Poirier’s Farewell Fight at UFC 318

Holloway Claims Epic Trilogy Win and Retains BMF Title

In an unforgettable main event at UFC 318, Max Holloway delivered a career-defining performance to defeat Dustin Poirier via unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 48-47), bringing their trilogy to a close. With the win, Holloway retained the BMF title and firmly announced his arrival as a major player in the lightweight division.

The bout, billed as Poirier’s retirement fight, turned into a five-round war of attrition. Holloway dropped Poirier multiple times, poured on relentless volume, and ultimately did more damage across 25 chaotic minutes. Poirier rallied in flashes, even scoring a knockdown of his own and threatening a guillotine, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.

“This ain’t my moment,” Holloway said post-fight. “Give it up for the man. This was Dustin’s night.” The Hawaiian then hinted at a future title shot, adding: “I got some history with the champ… UFC, your move.”

Poirier Retires After a Legendary Career

Dustin Poirier, emotional and reflective, laid down his gloves in the center of the Octagon as the crowd roared in appreciation. The 35-year-old exits the sport as one of MMA’s most respected and beloved fighters.

“It’s been overwhelming, honestly,” Poirier admitted. “I feel appreciated. I feel seen. I didn’t realize how many people I touched just by chasing my dream.” Poirier thanked the fans, his home state of Louisiana, and the UFC for the support throughout his journey.

His final performance was a fitting farewell — a back-and-forth brawl against a fellow legend, filled with heart, grit, and emotion. Few could ask for a better send-off.

Fight Recap: Fireworks From the Start

Holloway wasted no time setting the tone, sending Poirier to the canvas with a sharp straight shot early in the opening round. Though he didn’t get the finish, it signaled that his power had fully translated to 155 pounds.

Poirier battled back in the second with a slick left hand and a flush knee up the middle. But Holloway responded with a blistering combination that nearly finished the former interim champ. In a wild sequence, Poirier then scored a knockdown of his own and jumped on a guillotine, but Holloway managed to escape as the round ended in chaos.

The action didn’t let up. Holloway’s volume and precision continued to pile up while Poirier looked to land fight-changing shots. By the fifth, both men were visibly worn but still swinging, trading haymakers in the final seconds after Holloway pointed to the canvas in classic “stand and bang” fashion.

What’s Next for Max Holloway?

With victories over Justin Gaethje and now Dustin Poirier, Max Holloway has established himself as a serious contender at lightweight. Whether it’s a title shot or another big-name opponent, the options are plentiful for the rejuvenated “Blessed” era. A rematch with Ilia Topuria or Charles Oliveira seems likely.