Dustin Poirier engaged in a thrilling five-round battle with Max Holloway at UFC 318, ultimately losing by decision, which confirmed to his coach that it was the right time for Poirier to retire after a storied career.
Dustin Poirier proved he could still hang with the best, engaging in a five-round war with Max Holloway at UFC 318. This was his retirement fight, and what a battle it was.
Despite the back-and-forth action, Poirier lost by decision, absorbing 201 strikes and suffering multiple knockdowns. Yet, he almost finished Holloway in the second round, showcasing his resilience.
Mike Brown, Poirier’s head coach, has been with him through thick and thin. He believes this performance signaled it was time for Poirier to retire.
“It was the right time,” Brown shared with MMA Fighting. Winning might have tempted Poirier to keep fighting, but the loss helped him accept it was time to move on.
Had Poirier knocked out Holloway, he might have second-guessed retiring. But his legacy as one of the best lightweights remains intact.
The fight unfolded in classic Poirier style, but not without early drama. Holloway’s opening round onslaught nearly ended it before it began.
Brown’s heart nearly stopped as Poirier hit the canvas. “It was scary as hell,” he confessed, fearing the worst.
Miraculously, Poirier survived, got back on his feet, and the crowd went wild. He even dropped Holloway in the next round, adding to the drama.
A first-round stoppage would have been disastrous. But Poirier’s comeback made for an unforgettable fight.
In the second round, Poirier knocked Holloway down and attempted a guillotine choke. His love for the move is well-known, even if it never finished a fight.
Brown was thrilled when Poirier went for the choke. For a moment, he thought divine intervention was at play.
Ultimately, Holloway won by decision, while Poirier left his gloves in the octagon, marking the end of an era.
Brown was proud of Poirier’s performance, feeling confident it was truly his last fight. The love from Louisiana fans solidified that decision.
“Max Holloway is a legend, a Hall of Famer,” Brown noted. Poirier wanted a tough challenge, and he got it.
Poirier retired on his terms, unhurt and unscathed, a rare feat in MMA. Few fighters get to choose their own exit like he did.