The Diamond’s Last Dance: Poirier vs. Holloway 3 Headlines UFC 318

The UFC has officially announced that Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier will meet for a third time, headlining UFC 318 on July 19 in New Orleans, Louisiana. While the BMF title will be on the line, the stakes are even higher—as Dustin Poirier is set to retire.

In a poetic, full-circle moment, Poirier will walk away from MMA on his own terms, in his home state of Louisiana:

History of the Legendary Trilogy

The friendly rivalry between Holloway and Poirier began more than a decade ago. Their first clash came in 2012. When Holloway—just 20 years old at the time—made his UFC debut against a surging Poirier. Though Poirier submitted Holloway that night, it marked the start of Max’s rise to eventual featherweight greatness. Their next match-up wouldn’t come for another seven years.

Their paths crossed again in 2019 at UFC 236, this time with much higher stakes. After an incredible reign as featherweight champion, Holloway moved up to lightweight to face Poirier for the interim lightweight title. In an unforgettable back-and-forth battle, Poirier’s power and pressure earned him a unanimous decision victory. Despite the result, the fight was hailed as one of the year’s best, with both fighters showcasing heart, toughness, and championship spirit.

Poirier announced the fight during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, adding a sense of destiny to the occasion. The trilogy is set: Holloway vs. Poirier 3 in July. Max Holloway made his UFC debut against Dustin Poirier, and now, Holloway will be the final opponent of Poirier’s incredible career.

Despite Poirier holding a 2-0 edge in the series, anticipation for their third meeting remains through the roof. Both fighters have built passionate fanbases with their action-packed styles, humility, respect outside the cage, and willingness to face the toughest competition. Every time Holloway or Poirier steps into the Octagon, fans know they’re in for a show.

Coming Full Circle

Poirier said it all started in Louisiana, so it makes perfect sense to have it all end there too. Adding even more hometown flavor, Poirier recently represented Louisiana proudly by announcing a draft pick for the New Orleans Saints during the 2025 NFL Draft. His hometown connection makes UFC 318 even more meaningful for him, his family, and his supporters.

UFC 318 is shaping up to be a celebration—of a warrior’s career, of two legends colliding once again, and of everything fans love about MMA. Win, lose, or draw, it will be an emotional night in New Orleans as “The Diamond” bids farewell to the Octagon. He will go out honorably, against one of the very best.

Happy

3 50 %

Sad

0 0 %

Excited

2 33 %

Sleepy

0 0 %

Angry

0 0 %

Surprise

1 17 %

About Post Author

Connor Rogowsky

Connor “Rags” Rogowsky is a Co-Founder of The Scrap, where he contributes MMA content and occasionally delves into the world of pro wrestling. A former collegiate athlete in football and track, Connor pairs his sports experience with academic expertise to the pieces he writes. He holds a Master of Science in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University.

See author's posts