Dustin Poirier is set to fight Max Holloway in a trilogy bout at UFC 318 for the “BMF” belt, although he initially preferred a rematch with Justin Gaethje, and he plans to retire after the fight in his home state of Louisiana.
Dustin Poirier is thrilled to see Max Holloway back in the octagon, but he wasn’t his top pick. Poirier announced he’ll headline UFC 318 on July 19, facing Holloway in a trilogy bout. The “BMF” belt is up for grabs.
Poirier and Holloway have a history. They’ve fought twice, with Poirier winning both times. Yet, Poirier had another opponent in mind for a trilogy.
“I was asking for Justin Gaethje,” Poirier told MMA Junkie. They’re 1-1, and Poirier wanted to settle the score. But the UFC had different plans.
Despite not getting Gaethje, Poirier respects Holloway. “Legends only,” he said. Holloway fits the bill perfectly.
Poirier and Gaethje’s rivalry is intense. Poirier won their first match in 2018. Gaethje avenged the loss with a knockout at UFC 291, securing the “BMF” belt.
Interestingly, Ilia Topuria, now “La Leyenda,” wasn’t considered despite Poirier’s interest. “They wanted Max,” Poirier noted.
Poirier is eager to capture the “BMF” belt. He dreams of being the last to hold it. “Ride off into the sunset,” he mused.
Though Holloway wasn’t his first choice, Poirier is excited about the fight’s location—New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s been a decade since he fought near Lafayette.
“This is the dream,” Poirier shared. The UFC agreed to let him retire at home. It’s a rare gesture that means the world to him.
A poll asks fans who Poirier should face in his final fight. Justin Gaethje leads with 49% of the votes. The anticipation builds.