Poirier to Retire After UFC 318 in New Orleans

Dustin Poirier has announced he will retire after facing Max Holloway in a trilogy bout for the BMF title at UFC 318, set for July 19, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana. This marks their third meeting, with Poirier having won the previous two, including Holloway's UFC debut in 2012 and a 2019 interim lightweight title contest. Holloway, the reigning BMF champion, secured the belt by knocking out Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 and will defend it in this five-round headliner. Although Poirier initially sought a trilogy with Gaethje, the UFC matched him with Holloway, whom he regards as a worthy opponent for his farewell. Both fighters are coming off recent title bout losses but remain respected figures in the MMA community. The event is anticipated as a celebrated sendoff for Poirier and an homage to the BMF championship.