Dustin Poirier is preparing for his final fight against Max Holloway at UFC 318 in Louisiana, aiming to retire on a high note by potentially winning the “BMF” title and reflecting on his storied career and legacy as a dedicated fighter.
Dustin Poirier knows the reality of his retirement might not hit until after his fight against Max Holloway at UFC 318. But avoiding the topic? Almost impossible.
The event, taking place in his home state of Louisiana, is built around his final fight. Not many fighters get this kind of send-off, but Poirier chose to walk away now rather than wait for the sport to retire him.
“I think it’s just the right time,” Poirier shared during media day. “I don’t want this sport to chew me up. I want to walk away.”
Still ranked among the top lightweights, Poirier faces future Hall of Famer Holloway. Adding spice to the matchup, Holloway’s “BMF” title is on the line, possibly for the last time.
Winning that belt would be the perfect exclamation point for Poirier’s career. “It would be huge. A dream come true,” he said. “My last fight, in Louisiana, with Lil’ Wayne—storybook ending.”
Driving home in Louisiana, not flying out, with the “BMF” belt? That’s the dream. “I’m the baddest motherf*cker forever,” Poirier mused.
But beating Holloway isn’t easy, which is why Poirier stays focused, not letting retirement thoughts distract him.
Holloway, on the other hand, sees this as a chance to jump back into the title hunt. It’s his return to 155 pounds after a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria.
Poirier expects nothing less than Holloway’s best. “We’ll find out Saturday night if that shot really affected him,” he said. “I’m expecting another war.”
Their trilogy spans 13 years, each fight marking different stages in their careers. “It’s exciting,” Poirier remarked.
Once the fight concludes, tributes for Poirier will pour in. Yet, he doesn’t see himself as others do.
“I just feel like a normal guy,” Poirier confessed. “A fighter chasing dreams. The love from fans has been incredible.”
How does he want to be remembered? As a warrior. “Any time you saw my name, you knew it was going to be a war,” Poirier said. “I always gave it my all.”