A five-round battle closes Poirier’s UFC career as Holloway wins by unanimous decision

Max Holloway Defeats Dustin Poirier in Emotional UFC 318 Main Event

In an unforgettable night at UFC 318, Max Holloway defeated Dustin Poirier by unanimous decision, ending Poirier’s legendary career on a high note—even if not with a win. The fight took place in Poirier’s home state of Louisiana, making the moment even more emotional for fans and fighters alike.

Holloway, a former UFC featherweight champion, came out on top after five action-packed rounds, earning the judges’ scores of 48-47, 49-46, and 49-46. The fight not only closed out a personal trilogy between the two but also served as the latest defense of Holloway’s BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title.

A Trilogy Ends with Respect and Fireworks

This was the third time Holloway and Poirier met in the Octagon. Poirier had won their first two fights, but Holloway flipped the script this time around.

Both fighters are known for their striking, and they gave fans exactly what they expected—nonstop action on the feet. Holloway knocked Poirier down in the first round and looked close to finishing him again in the second. But Poirier came back strong, nearly locking in a guillotine choke that shifted the energy in the arena.

The momentum continued to swing throughout the fight. Holloway’s speed and volume gave him the edge in the middle rounds, but Poirier kept pushing forward, trying to turn the tide in the fifth. With just seconds left, Holloway called Poirier into the center of the Octagon for a final exchange, showing why both men are considered fan favorites.

Holloway Pays Tribute, Then Hands the Spotlight to Poirier

After the decision was announced, Holloway gave a quick and humble interview. He apologized to the Louisiana crowd for beating their hometown hero and used the moment to invite future challengers to step up for the BMF belt.

But then he stepped aside to let Poirier have his moment. When the crowd didn’t cheer loudly enough, Holloway called them out, urging more applause for Poirier—and they delivered.

Poirier Reflects on a Career of Impact

Fighting back tears, Poirier took the mic to share how deeply touched he felt during his final week as a UFC fighter.

“It’s been overwhelming, honestly. I feel appreciated, I feel seen. I didn’t know I touched as many people as I did just by chasing my dreams,” he said.

The UFC played a tribute video that moved Poirier to tears. Following tradition, he removed his gloves and left them in the Octagon before walking out to Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” He took his time exiting, hugging team members, staff, and fellow fighters—marking the end of a remarkable MMA journey.

UFC 318 Main Card Results

• BMF Championship: Max Holloway def. Dustin Poirier via unanimous decision (48-47, 49-46, 49-46)
• Middleweight: Paulo Costa def. Roman Kopylov via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
• Welterweight: Daniel Rodriguez def. Kevin Holland via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Featherweight: Patricio Pitbull def. Dan Ige via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Lightweight: Michael Johnson def. Daniel Zellhuber via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Notable UFC 318 Prelim and Early Prelim Highlights

• Vinicius Oliveira defeated Kyler Phillips via unanimous decision in bantamweight action.
• Brendan Allen beat Marvin Vettori in a solid middleweight contest.
• Islam Dulatov scored a first-round TKO win over Adam Fugitt.
• Jimmy Crute won by submission (armbar) against Marcin Prachnio.
• Carli Judice finished Nicolle Caliari with a TKO in the third round of their women’s flyweight bout.

What’s Next?

With Holloway’s win, he strengthens his case in the lightweight division while continuing to defend the BMF title. He also hinted at a possible showdown with new lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.

As for Poirier, the night marked the end of a storied career filled with heart, grit, and unforgettable fights. Though he didn’t get the fairytale ending, the standing ovation, tribute video, and love from the crowd proved just how much he’s meant to the sport.

Poirier may be stepping away from the cage, but his impact will be felt for years to come.