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Tag: Dustin Poirier

  • Dustin Poirier’s retirement: Brendan Allen looks back at how hard The Diamond hits

    Dustin Poirier’s retirement: Brendan Allen looks back at how hard The Diamond hits

    UFC middleweight Brendan Allen has spoken about how hard he was hit by Dustin Poirier once upon a time when they trained together.

    On Saturday night, Dustin Poirier will officially retire from professional mixed martial arts. He’ll do so after taking part in a trilogy fight against Max Holloway, with the two competing for the BMF title in the main event of UFC 318. Regardless of whether he wins or loses, it’s safe to say that ‘The Diamond’ will receive an incredible ovation from his home state of Louisiana.

    In a recent inteview Brendan Allen, who will also compete on the UFC 318 card, opened up on his experience of training with Dustin Poirier many years ago.

    Brendan Allen on Dustin Poirier’s power

    “I was sparring, trying to watch them spar because they were having a hell of a sparring session. Then it was live gos starting from guard against the wall and man they said go and he hit me so hard. It was like a live drill but you start in guard and he hit me so hard. I’m like f*ck man, I’m just a kid. We ain’t little no more. That sh*t ain’t going to happen again.”

    “You learn real quick,” Allen said. “That was my whole upbringing at the beginning, just trying with guys that are 25, 26, 27 [years old] and I’m 14, 15, 16 years old. It’s way different than nowadays, I can tell you that. It’s way different.”

    “At the end of the day, everything aside, I’m super happy for him and his family,” Allen said. “He’s earned every single thing he has right now. So many fighters would kill to have that and he’s done it. No matter what happens, the man has made a great life for himself by punching people in the face. You can’t ask for anything more than that.”

    Quotes via MMA Fighting

  • Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway 3: Chael Sonnen issues warning to retiring hero

    Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway 3: Chael Sonnen issues warning to retiring hero

    MMA analyst Chael Sonnen believes Dustin Poirier may have made a mistake that could cost him in his trilogy fight against Max Holloway.

    As we know, Dustin Poirier is set to compete in his retirement fight this weekend in the main event of UFC 318. He will battle Max Holloway for the BMF title, but more importantly, he’ll be fighting professionally for the final time. These two warriors have fought on two previous occasions and in both instances, it was ‘The Diamond’ who was able to come away with the victory.

    Of course, Dustin Poirier has never been one to hold back when giving his opinion on something, and he’s also a pretty honest guy when analyzing how a fight has gone. After their second fight a few years back, Poirier opened up on how you need to be able to disrupt Holloway, who he considers to be a rhythm fighter, so that he can’t go through the gears and build from one move to the next move.

    Sonnen believes that Dustin Poirier’s words are something that Max Holloway can subsequently use to his advantage.

    Chael Sonnen’s view on Dustin Poirier’s comments

    “I watched Max Holloway build his way back into this fight, I knew Dustin Poirier was a different fighter because he fought him back when things started to go south. There were times earlier in his career, with ‘The Korean Zombie‘, where it kind of snowballed on Dustin and he was never able to get back to it.”

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

  • Dustin Poirier’s retirement: UFC veteran explains the brilliance of The Diamond

    Dustin Poirier’s retirement: UFC veteran explains the brilliance of The Diamond

    UFC veteran Matt Brown has explained what made Dustin Poirier so special ahead of The Diamond’s retirement fight at UFC 318.

    On Saturday night, Dustin Poirier will make the walk to the octagon for the final time. He is set to retire from mixed martial arts following his main event bout against Max Holloway, which will also see the BMF title being put on the line.

    One thing we know to be true about Dustin Poirier is that he’s an absolute warrior. While he may never have held the undisputed UFC title, he went in there and put on a show against just about everyone he faced. That, in itself, is a testament to who he is as a fighter.

    In a recent podcast, Matt Brown gave his thoughts on what made Dustin Poirier special.

    Matt Brown analyzes Dustin Poirier

    “I think Dustin really maximized everything he has, that he was born with,” Brown said. “I think he did a great job. When he came into the UFC, I remember after Conor [McGregor] beat him, I don’t think anybody thought Dustin Poirier was going to be s***. At that point, I remember interviews asking me what do you think about Conor McGregor? He really hasn’t fought anybody. We didn’t know what Dustin Poirier would be at that time, but I don’t think anybody looked at him like ‘wow this is the next big guy.’

    “He didn’t come in with insane gifts or anything. I love and respect that so much. I hope he has an amazing life after. I hope that his life treats him well. Maybe he gets some books, speaking tours, makes a lot of money and lives a great life, and I think he’s earned every f*cking minute of it.”

    Quotes via MMA Fighting

  • Former Opponent Breaks Down What a Dustin Poirier Onslaught Feels Like Trading in the Pocket

    Former Opponent Breaks Down What a Dustin Poirier Onslaught Feels Like Trading in the Pocket

    Dustin Poirier will make his final walk to the Octagon this weekend at UFC 318, in his hometown of New Orleans, challenging an old rival in Max Holloway for the BMF title in the main event.

    This will be the third time Poirier and Holloway will meet in the Octagon, with Poirier having won both of the previous encounters.

    Poirier’s impending retirement has brought about a reflection on his legendary career in the sport and other classic fights and rivalries that Poirier has been a part of. In addition to multiple fights with Holloway in the UFC, Poirier has also been involved in rivalries with the likes of Conor McGregor, Justin Gaethje, and Eddie Alvarez.

    When asked by The Schmo about what keys will lead Poirier to a third victory over Holloway — based on his own experiences in the cage with “The Diamond” — Alvarez says it’s Poirier mixing up flurries with technical striking.

    “Honestly, What Dustin’s great at is putting on sprints,” Alvarez said. “Dustin is calculated. He doesn’t get hit with big shots too, too, too often. And he’s really good at putting on sprints where he’ll pick his shots and he’ll do a 15-second sprint where it’s just a barrage, barrage, barrage.”

    Eddie Alvarez Has High Hopes, Some Concerns As Former Foe Dustin Poirier Prepares For Retirement Fight At UFC 318

    Alvarez and Poirier first did battle at UFC 211, with that fight ending in a no contest due to Alvarez landing illegal knees on a downed Poirier. Poirier would win fights with Anthony Pettis and Gaethje before the two met in a rematch that main evented UFC Calgary in July 2018, with Poirier scoring a second-round TKO.

    Poirier submitted Holloway in February 2012, Holloway’s UFC debut, before defeating him at UFC 236 for the interim UFC lightweight championship.

    When giving a prediction for the fight, Alvarez said he expects another amazing fight between the pair, though admits he has some concerns about Poirier.

    “It’s really hard to lose to someone three times in a row. Max is a champion in his own right,” Alvarez said. “I just want to see a good fight. Both times they fought, they were great fights.

    “Personally, I don’t like when a guy says ‘I’m done. I’m retiring’ and then he goes and proceeds to fight. I don’t like that. I’ve never seen it actually go well for someone — where they say they’re going to retire, they go out there and put on a performance of a lifetime, and then they go and walk off into the sunset. Rarely do you see that.”

    Poirier enters this fight off a loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 in a lightweight title clash. Holloway, meanwhile, enters this fight off an unsuccessful challenge of then-featherweight champ Ilia Topuria at UFC 308. Holloway became BMF champion by koncking out Gaethje at UFC 300.

  • Dustin Poirier’s Notorious Guard: Former UFC Champ Explains Why It Gives Fighters So Many Issues

    Dustin Poirier’s Notorious Guard: Former UFC Champ Explains Why It Gives Fighters So Many Issues

    MMA analyst and former fighter Dominick Cruz has given his thoughts on the guard of Dustin Poirier ahead of his retirement fight.

    On Saturday night, Dustin Poirier will make the walk to the octagon for the final time. He’ll do so in the main event of UFC 318 when he squares off with Max Holloway for the BMF title.

    With this being his last fight, a lot of fans and pundits have taken the time to analyze the overall quality of Dustin Poirier’s game and his body of work. After all, he’s been fighting at the elite level for a long time now, and there’s a great deal of tape on him and what he can do inside the cage.

    In a recent video, Dominick Cruz decided to break down several aspects of Dustin Poirier’s style, including his guard.

    Dominick Cruz’s view on Dustin Poirier’s guard

    “It’s like a mixture of like a Philly roll and a shoulder roll. Keeps his elbow up like this. And this stays planted. Because if you decide to come up with a high kick or an overhand, he’s blocked. He’s always right here. Overhand, he’s blocked.”

    “What makes Dustin Poirier really dangerous, too, is he’s pulling you. He’s trying to always do this to get you to reach and he’s so good at sliding back and you think you’re hitting this, but he’ll just take one little baby step back and he’ll clip you with this right hook and then that sets his sequence up.”

  • Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway: Daniel Cormier’s thoughts on who should put the BMF belt on the winner

    Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway: Daniel Cormier’s thoughts on who should put the BMF belt on the winner

    UFC commentator Daniel Cormier has given his thoughts on who should put the BMF title on the winner of Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway, depending on who picks up the victory.

    On Saturday night, Dustin Poirier will fight Max Holloway in the main event of UFC 318. The two will compete for the BMF title, in what will also serve as the final fight of Poirier’s career. As you can imagine, it’s expected to be a pretty emotional moment.

    Throughout the history of the BMF championship, some holders have had different people wrap the belt around their waist. Ahead of Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway 3, some are speculating that it could happen again.

    Daniel Cormier recently came up with an idea for both Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway regarding who would receive that honor.

    Daniel Cormier’s view on Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway

    “If Lil Wayne is walking him out, Lil Wayne should walk out there and put the belt on Dustin Poirier,” Cormier said on Good Guy / Bad Guy.

    “I think Lil Wayne should do it…

    Cormier went for something more personal for Holloway.

    “It’s kinda like personal because I watched the disappointment of the last fight,” Cormier referenced Holloway’s recent KO defeat.

    “I’d let his wife do it because they’re so close, and she means so much,” Cormier added.

    “I would let Max’s wife do it because I saw how sad they were after the last fight.

    “It’s not just Max fighting. It’s his entire team, his entire family. I would let his wife do it because of how much it means to the family, or I’d let his son do it. I’d let his wife or his son do it.

    “It’s gotta be one of those two to strap the belt on that man because I know what it meant when I walked into that locker room after that Ilia loss, I know what it would mean to one of them to do it,” Cormier said.

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

  • What’s Next After UFC 317? Full Confirmed UFC 318 Main Card For New Orleans On July 19

    What’s Next After UFC 317? Full Confirmed UFC 318 Main Card For New Orleans On July 19

    UFC 317 is in the books, meaning attention will soon turn to the mixed martial arts leader’s next pay-per-view offering, UFC 318 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

    The promotion was in Las Vegas last week, where the T-Mobile Arena played host to a number of intriguing matchups for its sixth numbered event of the year. Of note were headline wins for Ilia Topuria and Alexandre Pantoja, as well as important victories for Joshua Van, Beneil Dariush and Payton Talbott.

    While the aftermath of the June 28 card is currently the talk of the town, it won’t be long until focus sways to the next PPV, and from the lightweight and flyweight championship title pictures to conversation around two BMFs — one of whom steps into the Octagon for the final time.

    In front of his native hometown crowd at UFC 318, set for the Smoothie King Arena on July 19, Dustin Poirier will take to the Octagon one last time, as he faces off with Max Holloway for the BMF belt. It will be the third encounter these two have had, with Poirier up 2-0 in the series and going for the clean sweep. A 4-0, 20-year-old Max Holloway made his UFC debut against Poirier at UFC 143, with Poirier winning via first-round submission. They would rematch seven years later at UFC 236, with Poirier scoring a clean decision to win the interim UFC lightweight championship.

    Poirier, who had been teasing retirement for some time now, will be competing for the first time in over a year, after getting submitted by Islam Makhachev in a lightweight title bout that headlined UFC 302. Poirier is 2-3 since winning his trilogy bout with Conor McGregor, including another failed lightweight title bid against Charles Oliveira at UFC 269. Poirier has fought for the BMF title once before, getting knocked out by Justin Gaethje at UFC 291.

    Holloway, the legendary former featherweight champion, will be competing in his first fight since failing to reclaim the title, getting knocked out by new lightweight champion Ilia Topuria in the main event of UFC 308. While Holloway began his MMA career at lightweight, he dropped to featherweight upon arriving to the UFC. Holloway’s other lightweight bout outside of facing Poirier for the second time came at UFC 300, when Holloway had his legendary knockout of Gaethje to win the BMF title.

    The co-main event will see Patricio Pitbull’s second UFC bout, as he takes on Dan Ige. Pitbull, the legendary former two-division Bellator champion, made his UFC debut at UFC 314 in April, losing a decision against Yair Rodriguez. Ige has lost three of his last five but will enter this fight off a third-round finish of Sean Woodson at UFC 314.

    Gautier, Costa, Johnson Set The Stage For BMF Title Headliner At UFC 318

    Before Poirier and Holloway make their way out for the BMF title fight, several names will look to make their own statements on the main card for UFC 318.

    This includes “The Silent Assassin” Ateba Gautier, who will be facing Robert Valentin. Gautier earned a UFC contract with a second-round finish of Yura Naito on Dana White’s Contender Series in September and scored a first-round knockout of Jose Medina in his UFC debut in March. Gautier will be taking on Robert Valentin, who fell short to Ryan Loder in The Ultimate Fighter season 32 finale and dropped a controversial split decision to Torrez Finney in April.

    Former middleweight title challenger Paulo Costa will also be in action, taking on Roman Kopylov. This fight was scheduled for UFC 317 but was pushed back to this card. Costa has lost four of his last five and has only fought four times since unsuccessfully challenging Israel Adesanya for the UFC middleweight championship at UFC 253. He most recently fought at UFC 302 last year, losing to Sean Strickland. Kopylov has won six of seven, most recently scoring a knockout of Chris Curtis in January.

    The main card is scheduled to open with veteran Michael Johnson taking on Daniel Zellhuber. Johnson has won two straight and four of his last six, most recently scoring a highlight knockout of Ottman Azaitar at UFC Tampa in December. This fight will mark Zellhuber’s first fight since losing to Esteban Ribovics at Noche UFC 2 (UFC 306) in what many people consider to be the best MMA fight of 2024.

    Those pairings have currently gotten the nod to feature on the main card over the likes of a long-awaited middleweight clash between bitter rivals Marvin Vettori and Brendan Allen, as well as Kevin Holland vs. Daniel Rodriguez, Ikram Aliskerov vs. Brunno Ferreira, and Neil Magny vs. Gunnar Nelson, all of whom are expected to be featured players on the event’s preliminary card.

    See below for the UFC 318 lineup, as it stands.

    Main Card:

    • BMF Championship: Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier
    • Featherweight: Dan Ige vs. Patricio Pitbull
    • Middleweight: Ateba Gautier vs. Robert Valentin
    • Middleweight: Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov
    • Lightweight: Michael Johnson vs. Daniel Zellhuber

    Preliminary Card (full card and bout order TBA):

    • Middleweight: Marvin Vettori vs. Brendan Allen
    • Welterweight: Kevin Holland vs. Daniel Rodriguez
    • Bantamweight: Kyler Phillips vs. Vinicius Oliveira
    • Middleweight: Ikram Aliskerov vs. Brunno Ferreira
    • Welterweight: Neil Magny vs. Gunnar Nelson
    • Heavyweight: Ryan Spann vs. Lukasz Brzeski
    • Light Heavyweight: Jimmy Crute vs. Marcin Prachnio
    • Welterweight: Adam Fugitt vs. Islam Dulatov
    • Women’s Flyweight: Carli Judice vs. Nicolle Caliari
    • Welterweight: Francisco Prado vs. Nikolay Veretennikov
  • Watch: Charles Oliveira vs. Dustin Poirier – Full Fight For Free

    Watch: Charles Oliveira vs. Dustin Poirier – Full Fight For Free

    The UFC has decided to treat fans by releasing the full Charles Oliveira vs. Dustin Poirier fight for free on YouTube, just in time to stir up excitement ahead of some major lightweight shakeups. If you missed it live, now’s your chance to see what happens when a submission machine meets a man with fists like anvils, all without paying a penny.

    The Fight: Charles Oliveira vs. Dustin Poirier – Watch

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6srwekM-RU

    This matchup was a classic clash of styles. Charles Oliveira, known for his slick submissions and record-setting finish rate, put his lightweight belt on the line against Dustin Poirier, a perennial contender with a reputation for violence and grit. The bout started at a furious pace, with Poirier landing heavy shots and nearly sending Oliveira to the mat early. Oliveira, unfazed, returned fire with knees and body kicks, mixing up his attacks and keeping Poirier guessing.

    The second round saw Oliveira’s ground game take over. He managed to pin Poirier and unleashed a barrage of elbows, making it clear why he holds the record for most submissions in UFC history. Poirier, tough as ever, survived the onslaught but couldn’t get back to his feet or mount any offense.

    In the third, Oliveira wasted no time jumping on Poirier’s back and locking in a rear-naked choke. Poirier tried to fight it off, but Oliveira’s grip was too tight. The tap came just over a minute into the round, cementing Oliveira’s status as the king of submissions and leaving Poirier with another close-but-not-quite moment on the big stage.

    Dustin Poirier
    Image: UFC.com

    What’s Next for Oliveira and Poirier? Charles Oliveira is set to fight Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 on June 28, 2025, in Las Vegas. The stakes? The vacant lightweight crown. Oliveira is coming off a win over Michael Chandler and is looking to reclaim his spot at the top of the division. Dustin Poirier is preparing for his swan song. UFC 318, scheduled for July 19 in New Orleans, will see Poirier face Max Holloway for the BMF title in what’s billed as his retirement fight. The two have history: Poirier won both previous encounters, but Holloway is coming in hot after a move to lightweight and a highlight-reel knockout at UFC 300.

  • Dustin Poirier Reveals Two Suggestions UFC Turned Down For Retirement Fight

    Dustin Poirier Reveals Two Suggestions UFC Turned Down For Retirement Fight

    Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight is locked in versus Max Holloway at UFC 318, but “Blessed” evidently wasn’t among the first two names pitched by the former interim lightweight champion.

    After his third failed bid at achieving undisputed kingpin status on MMA’s biggest stage last year, Poirier decided against hanging up the gloves just yet. Instead, he’ll enter the cage for one final farewell.

    That’ll come in competition for Holloway’s symbolic BMF title in the main event at New Orleans’ Smoothie King Center on July 19. But though a trilogy with the Hawaiian will mark his career’s conclusion, it turns out Poirier initially had other potential matchups in mind.

    During a recent interview with MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn, “The Diamond” revealed that he enquired to UFC higher-ups about another trilogy — a score-settler with Justin Gaethje — and the chance to welcome Ilia Topuria back to 155 pounds.

    “I was asking for Gaethje,” Dustin Poirier said. “I was asking Hunter (Campbell) and the UFC for Gaethje, because we’re 1-1 and I want to close out that trilogy. For some reason they really wanted this fight, so I said, ‘OK, that’s cool because I respect the guy for my last fight.’ I don’t know what their thought process was for putting this together with me and Max, but I have a lot of respect for him, so it makes a lot of sense for me. I said legends only. Definitely fits that.

    “Not once (did they offer Topuria),” Poirier continued. “When he said he was going to 155, I messaged Hunter and the UFC and I said, ‘Hey, what’s up? Let me know what’s going on with this guy now that he’s at ’55.’ But they never entertained it. They told me it’s not happening and they wanted Max.”

  • Dustin Poirier Set To Challenge For A Title In His Retirement Fight At UFC 318

    Dustin Poirier Set To Challenge For A Title In His Retirement Fight At UFC 318

    UFC legend Dustin Poirier has his final fight in the calendar — and it comes against a familiar adversary.

    Poirier will be making his farewell as an active mixed martial artist in 2025. He committed to one more walk to the Octagon soon after his latest failed shot at the undisputed lightweight title last June in Newark, where he was submitted in round five of the UFC 302 main event by Islam Makhachev.

    “The Diamond” outlined that he was targeting fellow “legends” of the sport for a showdown close to home in New Orleans this summer when discussing his search for an opponent.

    And when it comes to that description, the promotion certainly obliged.

    The UFC officially announced this week that Poirier will run it back with Max Holloway in competition for the symbolic BMF title at UFC 318 in New Orleans on July 19.

    While Poirier is coming off a submission defeat to the lightweight kingpin last time out, Holloway fell short opposite Ilia Topuria, the now-former featherweight titleholder. “Blessed” was knocked out for the first time in his career by “El Matador” in Abu Dhabi last October.

    The Hawaiian will now return to lightweight to defend the BMF belt for the first time since capturing it from Justin Gaethje, who earned the symbolic strap with a KO of Poirier in 2023.

    Holloway is currently 0-2 against “The Diamond,” having been submitted by the Louisianan in 2012 before being outpointed in their 2019 rematch for the interim UFC lightweight title.

  • Henry Cejudo Thinks He’s Cracked The Case Of Who Dustin Poirier Will Face In Retirement Fight

    Henry Cejudo Thinks He’s Cracked The Case Of Who Dustin Poirier Will Face In Retirement Fight

    Dustin Poirier is set to have one final UFC fight this year, and former two-division champion Henry Cejudo thinks he might have worked out who will be tasked with sending him into retirement.

    Poirier is planning to make his farewell in 2025. He committed to one more Octagon outing soon after his latest failed shot at the undisputed lightweight title last June in Newark, where he was submitted in round five of the UFC 302 main event by Islam Makhachev.

    While an opponent and event is yet to be announced, “The Diamond” is targeting fellow “legends” of the sport for a showdown close to home in New Orleans this summer.

    And that exact description has left one fellow fighter sharing a possible theory…

    “I can see Ilia Topuria vs. Dustin Poirier,” Cejudo said on episode 26 of The Bohnfire podcast, hosted by MMA Junkie reporter Mike Bohn. “Of course, if I think about it, Dustin Poirier did say he’s only fighting legends for his retirement fight and Ilia Topuria just changed his name to ‘The Legend.’ … We’re probably on to something.”

    Topuria, who is set to vacate the featherweight title and move permanently to the lightweight division, caused a stir last month when he announced the end of his “El Matador” nickname.

    As he begins a pursuit of championship glory in a new weight class, the Spaniard will go by the moniker of “La Leyenda,” meaning “The Legend.”

  • Dustin Poirier Reacts As Teammate ‘Jumps The Gilly’ To Land UFC London Submission Win

    Dustin Poirier Reacts As Teammate ‘Jumps The Gilly’ To Land UFC London Submission Win

    Jumping the gilly worked for one of Dustin Poirier’s teammates, Chris Duncan, as he scored a submission victory with the hold against Jordan Vucenic at UFC London.

    Duncan’s power and grappling led him to success in this one, starting from a right cross that dropped Vucenic during the opening frame. Vucenic survived the Scotsman’s attempts at a finish, but Duncan made him eat several powerful elbows, as well as a slam.

    The American Top Team-trained fighterlanded a takedown early in the second and got back to business despite Vucenic’s attempts to fight from the bottom. The Englishman himself tried for a guillotine choke, but Duncan was able to fight out of it.

    Chris Duncan Jumps The Gilly, Scores Victory At UFC London

    Despite Vucenic trying to start a rally with his strikes, Duncan jumped for the guillotine choke and succeeded, scoring the tapout victory at UFC London.

    The result quickly drew a reaction from Poirier, whose penchant for jumping for guillotine chokes made him an immediate point of note as one of Duncan’s ATT teammates.

    Duncan, who earned a UFC contract off a quick victory on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2022, is now 4-1 in the Octagon.

    Despite a strong run of success in cage warriors, meanwhile, “The Epidemic” now falls to 0-2 in the UFC. He made his Octagon debut in a loss to Guram Kutateladze last year.

  • ‘He Must Be An Idiot’ – Paddy Pimblett Blasts Dustin Poirier Over Retirement Plan

    ‘He Must Be An Idiot’ – Paddy Pimblett Blasts Dustin Poirier Over Retirement Plan

    Paddy Pimblett can’t even fathom why Dustin Poirier has announced his plans to retire.

    Poirier has been weighing the idea of retirement for a while, and now, after falling short in his third attempt at undisputed lightweight gold against reigning champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 last June, he seems fully committed to calling it a career.

    However, “The Diamond” has made it clear he won’t hang up his gloves without a proper send-off. He’s spent the past several months pushing the UFC to grant him a farewell fight in his hometown of Lafayette, Louisiana.

    The former UFC interim lightweight champion has shut down any possibility of facing rising contender Pimblett in his farewell fight, declaring that only a fellow “legend” is worthy of his final showdown.

    “The Baddy” is now set for a high-stakes showdown against former title challenger Michael Chandler in the co-main event of UFC 314 on April 12, taking place at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida.

    During a recent conversation with ESPN Deportes, Paddy Pimblett insisted that Dustin Poirier still has plenty left in the tank and shouldn’t even be considering retirement. Moreover, he’s confident that if they ever shared the Octagon, he’d have the upper hand.

    “He said something about me the other day didn’t he? Saying it’s legends only and he thinks Chandler will beat me,” Pimblett said. “I think he should have more than one fight (before he retires). He looked good in his last fight. I don’t understand why you’d retire when you look good, but you know, he must be an idiot. I think I beat Dustin Poirier so, I’d love to fight him.”

    There’s still no official confirmation on who “The Diamond” will face in his final fight. However, earlier this month, fellow lightweight contender Beneil Dariush speculated that Poirier could run it back with former foe and reigning BMF titleholder Max Holloway.

    Poirier and Holloway first met inside the Octagon at UFC 143 in February 2012, where the Louisiana native secured a first-round submission victory in their featherweight clash.

    Their paths crossed once again at UFC 236 in April 2019, this time with interim lightweight gold on the line. Poirier secured the victory by unanimous decision.

  • Top UFC Lightweight Appears To Leak Dustin Poirier’s Retirement Fight

    Top UFC Lightweight Appears To Leak Dustin Poirier’s Retirement Fight

    Beneil Dariush has seemingly heard something about Dustin Poirier’s spectacular farewell to his UFC career.

    Poirier, who last fought in a title bout against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302, had been contemplating retirement in the aftermath of his latest setback but recently confirmed his intention to return for one final fight.

    With 40 professional bouts under his belt, Poirier has hinted at a set date and an “incredible” location for his farewell appearance, likely being in his home state of Louisiana.

    However, he has remained secretive about his opponent, revealing only that it will be a “legends only” matchup.

    And the bout Dariush suggested is in the works during a recent appearance on Submission Radio would certainly fit that billing.

    “Right now, my understanding is Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway are going to fight,” Dariush said. “I don’t know if it’s 100 percent sealed and done, but that’s what I am hearing.”

    Holloway, who last fought in October, is looking to rebound from his first career knockout loss against Ilia Topuria. Despite that setback, he remains the reigning BMF champion, a symbolic title he claimed with a stunning knockout victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 in April 2024.

    In their initial encounter at UFC 143 in January 2012, a young Holloway, making his UFC debut at just 20 years old, faced a tough introduction to the octagon. His more experienced opponent, holding an 11-1 record, quickly secured a submission victory, highlighting the significant experience gap between the two fighters.

  • Justin Gaethje Says One Matchup Definitely Off The Table After UFC 313 Win

    Justin Gaethje Says One Matchup Definitely Off The Table After UFC 313 Win

    Despite his past title failures, Justin Gaethje remains determined to capture the UFC lightweight championship.

    His recent victory over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313 has reignited his hopes of reclaiming the title, currently held by Islam Makhachev.

    Gaethje, bouncing back from a knockout loss to Max Holloway, expressed his interest in facing the Dagestani post-fight. While he acknowledges that his second win over Fiziev may not guarantee him a title shot next, “The Highlight” recognizes its positive impact on his position in the division.

    His recent record showcases a strong run, with three wins in his last four fights, including decision victories over Fiziev and a knockout of Dustin Poirier that earned him the BMF title. His only loss in that span came against Holloway at UFC 300.

    “I want to fight for the belt, obviously,” Justin Gaethje said at the UFC 313 post-fight press conference. “That’s a much different matchup than the one I just had. They tried to give me a doughnut. I took a bite, but I’ve got to get back to running if I’m going to fight Makhachev.”

    Following his UFC 313 victory, Gaethje is weighing his options for his next fight. One potential matchup is off the table: a third bout against Poirier.

    “No, I’ve stated many times that I don’t think either one of our families deserves that,” Gaethje said. “We’re 1-1. I’m OK with it. If he’s OK with it, then no. I think we’re contenders, but we need to beat other people. If I beat him, I don’t think either one of us would be considered a contender.”

  • Dustin Poirier Responds To Claim He Rejected Justin Gaethje Trilogy At UFC 313

    Dustin Poirier has refuted any suggestion he outright rejected a potential short-notice clash with Justin Gaethje at UFC 313.

    The UFC 313 co-main event has undergone a significant late change, with Rafael Fiziev stepping in to replace the injured Dan Hooker in a rematch against Gaethje.

    While Fiziev ultimately secured the fight, he wasn’t the only option considered. Several high-profile fighters, including Arman Tsarukyan, Charles Oliveira, Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier, were seemingly in the discussion, but logistical and weight-related issues prevented them from accepting.

    After Dan Hooker withdrew due to injury, multiple fighters expressed interest in stepping up. Gaethje revealed the decision-making process, providing insight into why Fiziev was ultimately chosen.

    “Arman and Charles understandably said no. Max and Dustin understandably said no. Moicano got the call and said no. Props to Fiziev for volunteering to fly across the world and take this fight. Big risk here for me taking this rematch against an elite striker. Life’s a trip. Best live show on earth going down March 8th #UFC313.”

    While Gaethje listed Poirier among those who declined, Dustin Poirier quickly clarified that he had actually reached out to the UFC himself upon hearing the news.

    “I’m the one who reached out to them when I read the news. Ask Hunter. All respect to you and Fiziev, looking forward to this one again.” 

    Gaethje responded, explaining that he didn’t mean to imply Poirier or others refused to fight him.

    “I was just running back the crazy 48 hours I went through. I was not trying to imply any of you guys would not fight me. Arman was too heavy, same with Charles. UFC obviously has plans for you at a later date so they said that’s a no-go.”

    Poirier then responded in good spirits: “All good bro!! Glad you got an opponent! Can’t wait to watch!!”

    Arman Tsarukyan also expressed interest in taking the fight on short notice. However, due to limited time to prepare for a standard lightweight bout (155 pounds), the Russian-Armenian proposed a 160-pound catchweight fight.

    According to Tsarukyan, the UFC did not agree to the catchweight, which ultimately led to Fiziev being chosen instead.

    “Ataman,” who lost a close decision to Gaethje in their first encounter at UFC 286, now has a shot at redemption on short notice.

  • Former Fighter Explains How UFC Could Delay Dustin Poirier’s Retirement

    According to one former UFC contender and Strikeforce champion, Dustin Poirier’s next fight doesn’t necessarily have to be his last.

    Poirier is planning to make his farewell in 2025. He committed to one more Octagon outing soon after his latest failed shot at the undisputed lightweight title last June in Newark.

    While an opponent and event is yet to be announced, “The Diamond” is targeting fellow “legends” of the sport for a showdown close to home in New Orleans this summer.

    During a recent episode of his Weighing In podcast alongside John McCarthy, Josh Thomson gave his taken on possible opposition for Poirier. And “The Punk” had one matchup in mind that he believes could come along with a promise capable of keeping the Louisianan in the sport for a little bit longer.

    “I feel with Dustin, he could do whatever he wants,” Thomson said. “I feel like there’s something there right now. Islam fights Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria fights Dustin. I would not be surprised if they dangled a little carrot in front of Dustin and say, ‘Hey, if you beat Topuria, you can fight Islam whenever you want. ‘… I wouldn’t be surprised, if you dangle that in front of Dustin, I think he would stay at least for that.”

    Ilia Topuria recently vacated his featherweight title following one successful defense, citing a struggle to make the weight. He’ll now make a permanent move up to lightweight in pursuit of two-division glory.

    It remains to be seen whether “El Matador” will arrive straight into a title fight or be made to defeat a top contender first.

  • Dustin Poirier Gives Major Update On His UFC Retirement Fight

    Dustin Poirier Gives Major Update On His UFC Retirement Fight

    Former interim UFC lightweight champion Dustin Poirier has updated fans on when his final farewell inside the Octagon is likely to take place.

    It initially appeared as though MMA enthusiasts had seen Poirier make the walk for the final time last summer. After a vintage knockout of Benoît Saint Denis in March, “The Diamond” had one last opportunity to achieve undisputed status.

    But while he gave it his all through four rounds against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 in Newark, Poirier succumbed to a rear-naked choke in the final frame of the pay-per-view main event.

    The veteran’s Octagon interview suggested that an official retirement was on the way, but the fire beneath Poirier has not fully diminished. After pondering a farewell fight, the Louisianan has made that decision final.

    Talk has since turned to which major matchup Poirier could depart the sport off the back of. And although that remains undecided, the fan favorite appears close to getting an event pencilled in.

    “I’ll drop it,” Poirier told MMA Fighting‘s José Youngs regarding an announcement on his final fight. “It’s summer. July or August, probably. We’re working on UFC New Orleans.

    I’m trying to retire in my home state. The UFC hasn’t been there since 2015. I fought on the card as well. I fought Yancy Medeiros, but that was the last time I got to fight at home,” Poirier continued. “To retire where it all started in Louisiana would be incredible for me and my career.”

    Poirier has made it clear that he’s entertaining “legends only” when it comes to his final opponent, shutting down talk of a clash with Paddy Pimblett prior to “The Baddy’s” UFC 314 co-main event against Michael Chandler being announced.

    With that in mind, the promotion will no doubt be seeking a high-profile name to share the cage with Poirier for his final dance.

  • Dustin Poirier Doesn’t Like Ilia Topuria Or Islam Makhachev’s Chances In Higher Weight Classes

    Dustin Poirier Doesn’t Like Ilia Topuria Or Islam Makhachev’s Chances In Higher Weight Classes

    While Dustin Poirier awaits news on what is expected to be his final fight, he remains an active observer of the lightweight division and its potential shake-ups.

    Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, has hinted at pursuing a second title, though his next move remains uncertain. While a jump to welterweight would seem logical, Makhachev has expressed hesitation due to his friendship and training relationship with current 170-pound kingpin Belal Muhammad. Instead, he has suggested that a move to middleweight could be more likely.

    Poirier, however, questions whether that would be a viable option.

    “I think he would do really well at 170 [pounds],” Poirier told Helen Yee. “185, the guys are just too big. Islam’s a big guy. He can fight 170 for sure. He could become the champion at 170, I believe, but 185’s pushing it, I think.”

    While Makhachev considers moving up in weight, former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria has officially vacated his title to compete at 155 pounds.

    After scoring impressive knockout victories over Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway in 2024, Topuria immediately set his sights on a title fight against Makhachev. However, Makhachev has largely dismissed this challenge, citing his two wins over Volkanovski and a preference for opponents who would add more to his legacy.

    Poirier didn’t directly address Makhachev’s stance but seemed to agree that Topuria’s immediate pursuit of the lightweight title might not end well.

    “If he can stop the takedowns, his boxing’s better than Islam’s,” Poirier said of Topuria. “He’s a bigger puncher. Islam’s technique is getting a lot better on the feet. He’s kind of crafty and elusive. When I fought him, he fought at a weird range. The size difference is just too much [for Topuria], I believe.”

    With both Makhachev and Topuria considering career-altering moves, the lightweight division remains one of the most intriguing in the UFC, and Poirier, even as he nears the end of his career, continues to provide insightful takes on its evolving landscape.

  • Dustin Poirier On Ilia Topuria’s Lightweight Hopes: ‘I Think Islam Is Too Much, But…’

    Dustin Poirier On Ilia Topuria’s Lightweight Hopes: ‘I Think Islam Is Too Much, But…’

    Dustin Poirier is intrigued by a potential showdown between UFC Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria and lightweight kingpin Islam Makhachev.

    The 145-pound titleholder has expressed interest in moving up to challenge Makhachev, who is currently ranked as the UFC’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter.

    Poirier is torn on who he believes would win the fight. “The Diamond,” coming off a fifth-round submission loss to Makhachev at UFC 302, questions whether the Spaniard has the necessary size to counter the Dagestani’s grappling.

    “He definitely does have a shot,” Poirier told Sports Illustrated regarding Topuria vs. Makhachev. “I think from ’45 to 170, Topuria has the power and the skills to knock anybody out. His timing, his rhythm, his power is incredible, but the size difference is with Islam’s wrestling.

    “I’ve never seen Topuria in person. Obviously, I fought Islam; he’s a big guy. Islam can’t make ’45. I know they say Topuria might walk around 190 (pounds) outside of fights and stuff, but I just think Islam is just too much. But I don’t know. Like I said, if Ilia does connect, he can put anybody out.”

    Topuria’s most recent victory was a knockout of Max Holloway at UFC 308, which saw him successfully defend the featherweight title.

    Meanwhile, Makhachev is fresh off a swift submission win over Renato Moicano at UFC 311. This victory marked his fourth successful title defense, setting a new record for the most in UFC lightweight history.

  • Dustin Poirier Provides Update On UFC’s Plans For His Retirement Fight

    Dustin Poirier Provides Update On UFC’s Plans For His Retirement Fight

    Dustin Poirier is hoping to end his MMA career with a final fight in his home state of Louisiana — and he may get his wish.

    The former interim lightweight champion is actively working with the UFC to make it happen. Poirier’s last fight was a title bout loss to UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 last June.

    According to records obtained by MMA Junkie, the UFC has expressed interest in holding an event in New Orleans in 2025. The promotion hasn’t hosted an event in Louisiana since 2015, when Poirier secured a first-round TKO victory over Yancy Medeiros on the card.

    “I wish I could tell you more. I’ve actually been having calls every week with the UFC,” Poirier told The Schmo. “But it’s looking like summer in New Orleans is close to happening for my retirement fight. A pay-per-view in New Orleans this summer would be incredible.

    “That’s what I’m pushing for. That’s what the UFC’s working toward, and things are getting pretty close: Lay the gloves down where it all started in Louisiana. It would be an honor for me.”

  • Javier Mendez Picks Islam Makhachev’s Toughest Fight To Date, Doesn’t Choose First Tsarukyan Clash

    Javier Mendez Picks Islam Makhachev’s Toughest Fight To Date, Doesn’t Choose First Tsarukyan Clash

    UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has established himself as one of the most dominant fighters in the division, with only a single loss in his career — a knockout defeat to Adriano Martins in 2015.

    Makhachev has consistently showcased his skillset against top-tier opponents and continued to get better with each bout, but coach Javier Mendez believes his toughest test so far came in his most recent victory over Dustin Poirier.

    “Dustin was the biggest challenge,” Mendez told Submission Radio. “Dustin brought it, man. That was a Dustin I’d never seen before. That was an unbelievable Dustin, so, for me, it’s Dustin. I don’t know about Arman because it hasn’t happened yet. But right at this particular juncture, it’s Dustin. Dustin was the biggest challenge.”

    Makhachev secured a fifth-round submission victory over Poirier at UFC 302, a fight some consider one of his most grueling yet. His ability to withstand Poirier’s pressure and secure a decisive finish only added to his reputation as a dominant champion.

    Next, Makhachev is set to defend his lightweight title in a rematch against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311. The fight will take place in the main event on Saturday at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Their first meeting in 2019 was a competitive bout, and fans are eager to see how both fighters have evolved since.

  • Islam Makhachev Outlines His Mistakes In Dustin Poirier Win: ‘When I Watch The Highlights…’

    Islam Makhachev Outlines His Mistakes In Dustin Poirier Win: ‘When I Watch The Highlights…’

    UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has built a reputation as a dominant force in the Octagon, but he remains introspective about his performances.

    Reflecting on his third title defense at UFC 302, where he submitted Dustin Poirier, Makhachev acknowledged the challenges “The Diamond” presented and admitted to making mistakes during the bout.

    Speaking with Demetrious Johnson on his YouTube channel, Makhachev praised Poirier’s preparation and competitiveness, noting that Poirier even managed to win two rounds on one judge’s scorecard.

    “Last time I fought Poirier, he prepared for this fight very well,” Makhachev said. “He did good homework, and he defended my wrestling. I did like, a lot of mistakes. I also had the kimura, and when I closed, I thought it was finished.

    “I did mistakes a couple of times, you know, and he gave me a (gash). But when I watch the highlights, I like this fight. If you ask me which fight I want to watch again, I’m going to say with Poirier because I watched this fight many times, and I was enjoying it. I know what I did wrong, what I did right, what I have to change.”

    Makhachev’s focus now shifts to UFC 311, where he will face Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch. The bout will take place on Jan. 18 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

  • Dustin Poirier Makes His Pick For 2024 Knockout Of The Year: ‘Never Really Seen Him Rocked’

    Dustin Poirier Makes His Pick For 2024 Knockout Of The Year: ‘Never Really Seen Him Rocked’

    UFC lightweight contender Dustin Poirier has revealed his choice for Knockout of the Year — and it’s not Max Holloway’s finish of Justin Gaethje.

    With mixed martial arts’ leading promotion concluding its schedule for 2024, focus has turned to a number of categories for the annual year-end awards. And perhaps the most discussed is who delivered the top KO across the past 12 months.

    Leading the way for most appears to be the top moment from this past April’s milestone UFC 300 pay-per-view, which saw Holloway sleep Gaethje with just one second remaining to capture the symbolic BMF crown.

    But while many are selecting that as their pick for 2024, Poirier actually has Holloway on the wrong end of his choice…

    During a recent appearance on ESPN MMA‘s Good Guy/Bad Guy show with Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen, Poirier pointed to featherweight kingpin Ilia Topuria’s brutal finish of “Blessed” at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi.

    Explaining his choice, the Louisianan noted Holloway’s status as a fighter yet to be dropped or even hurt significantly on the feet in MMA before October’s numbered event at Etihad Arena.

    “Just how elusive (Holloway) is there but also the guys he fought, he’s never been put down,” Poirier said. “Taking big shots and always answering the bell, always getting back up, always showing up to the next round. Never really seen him rocked or stumble that much. And to get put down for the first time after 30-plus UFC fights is, to me, Knockout of the Year.”

    The result marks one of two candidates for KO of the Year that Topuria delivered in 2024. Eight months prior, the Spaniard rendered Alexander Volkanovski unconscious in the second round of their title fight in Anaheim.

    Having defended the belt at Holloway’s expense to close out his year, “El Matador” will no doubt look to display more violence in 2025, perhaps with a different UFC championship on the light given his recent lightweight tease.

  • Khabib Nurmagomedov Advises Former Opponents Dustin Poirier & Justin Gaethje To Retire

    Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov retired on top, leaving the sport after a dominant submission victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254.

    Despite UFC CEO Dana White’s efforts to lure him back, Khabib remains firm in his decision to stay retired. However, he remains active in the sport as a trainer and continues to keep a close eye on the MMA landscape.

    The Dagestani has witnessed the decline of several notable fighters, including Dustin Poirier, Gaethje, and Tony Ferguson, and he has urged them to step away from competition.

    “I think Poirier has to stop fighting. I think he’s finished,” Khabib said during an interview on the Pound 4 Pound podcast. “Justin Gaethje, Khabib, Dustin Poirier, Tony Ferguson — this is old school, brother. Stop fighting. We have to recognize relevance.”

    Khabib’s protégé, Islam Makhachev, recently defeated Poirier to retain the lightweight title. That loss marked the Louisianan’s third failed title bid, and he has since announced that he will retire after his next fight.

    Meanwhile, Gaethje is coming off a brutal knockout loss at UFC 300 and has yet to schedule a return. Ferguson, on the other hand, is on an eight-fight losing streak and hasn’t won a bout since 2019.