The UFC 318 event was a night full of action, emotions, and unforgettable moments. Fans from around the world tuned in to watch one of the most anticipated fights in recent years – Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier 3. This was not just a fight; it was the final chapter of a long rivalry, and the last time Dustin Poirier stepped into the octagon as a UFC fighter.
Poirier’s Emotional Farewell
For Dustin Poirier, UFC 318 was about more than just winning or losing. It was his chance to say goodbye to the sport he loved. The 35-year-old Louisiana native had already hinted that this would be his retirement fight. As he walked into the arena, the crowd gave him a standing ovation.
After the fight, Poirier spoke to ESPN’s Daniel Cormier and said, “I feel appreciated and seen. I didn’t know I touched so many lives while chasing my dream.” The UFC even played a tribute video for him, showing highlights of his career as Frank Sinatra’s song “My Way” echoed in the background.
Poirier removed his gloves and left them in the center of the octagon – a UFC tradition that marks a fighter’s retirement.
Holloway vs. Poirier: Round-by-Round Action
The fight itself was intense and competitive from start to finish. Fans knew it would be special because both Holloway and Poirier are considered future UFC Hall of Famers. Here’s how it played out:
Round 1: Holloway started strong, knocking Poirier down twice with powerful punches. But Poirier showed heart by recovering and staying in the fight.
Round 2: Holloway kept up the pressure with fast combinations. Poirier surprised everyone with a strike that cut Holloway’s eye and even attempted a guillotine choke.
Round 3: Poirier suffered a small cut near his eye but refused to quit. Both fighters exchanged heavy blows, showing incredible toughness.
Round 4: Holloway landed cleaner shots and seemed to pull ahead on the scorecards. Poirier tried to push the pace but couldn’t find a knockout punch.
Round 5: The final round was emotional. Both fighters went all out, knowing it was Poirier’s last fight. Holloway closed the fight with a flurry of strikes.
When the final bell rang, the two embraced, and Holloway kissed Poirier on the forehead in a beautiful show of respect.
Holloway won the fight by unanimous decision, keeping his BMF (Baddest Motherf*er) title** and spoiling Poirier’s farewell victory.
Other Big Results from UFC 318
The event was packed with thrilling fights:
- Paulo Costa defeated Roman Kopylov by unanimous decision after dominating all three rounds.
- Daniel Rodriguez beat Kevin Holland in a close welterweight fight.
- Patricio Pitbull earned his first UFC win against Dan Ige.
- Michael Johnson, at age 38, proved he still has it with a victory over Daniel Zellhuber.
In the prelims, Vinicius Oliveira, Brendan Allen, and Nikolay Veretinnikov also won their matches.
A Night to Remember
UFC 318 will be remembered not just for Holloway’s win but also for Poirier’s emotional exit. Fans saw two legends give everything they had in the octagon.
Poirier’s journey ends with an impressive record of 30 wins, 10 losses, and 1 no-contest. Even though he didn’t win his final fight, he won the hearts of millions worldwide.
As he walked away, Poirier said it best: “Don’t be sad it’s over, be happy it happened.”
Poirier’s Final Walk to the Octagon
In his home state of Louisiana, Dustin Poirier stepped into the octagon for the last time. Fans roared as he entered, and emotions ran high. After 15 years of fighting at the highest level, Poirier planned to retire regardless of the result.
“I feel appreciated and seen,” Poirier said after the fight. “It’s been an incredible journey. I didn’t know I touched so many lives while chasing my dream.”
