Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier Trilogy: Who Wins the UFC 318 Main Event?

By Ali Hammad July 02, 2025 05:43

The highly anticipated trilogy fight between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier headlines UFC 318 on July 19, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana. This bout not only marks the culmination of a fierce rivalry but also serves as Poirier’s retirement fight, adding emotional weight and intensity to what promises to be a memorable showdown.

Poirier, known as “The Diamond,” enters the Octagon with a 30-9 professional record and two victories over Holloway. Their first encounter in 2012 saw Poirier submit Holloway via triangle-armbar in Holloway’s UFC debut. The second meeting, in 2019 at UFC 236, was an interim lightweight title fight where Poirier won by unanimous decision, ending Holloway’s 13-fight win streak. Despite these losses, Holloway remains a formidable force, holding the ceremonial BMF (Baddest Motherfucker) title after his 2024 Knockout of the Year against Justin Gaethje.

This trilogy fight carries significant stakes. For Poirier, it is a chance to exit the sport on a high note in front of his hometown crowd, cementing his legacy with a third win over a top lightweight. Poirier currently shares the UFC Lightweight knockout record with nine finishes, tied with Drew Dober, and a victory by knockout over Holloway would make him the undisputed leader in that category. As reported by Bloody Elbow, “Dustin Poirier can break a two-year-old UFC record by knocking out Max Holloway in his retirement fight at UFC 318.”

Holloway, 33, is motivated to avenge his two losses and prove he still belongs among the elite. Known for his relentless pressure and volume striking, Holloway’s style contrasts with Poirier’s power and precision. Despite recent setbacks including a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria in October Holloway’s experience and heart make him a dangerous adversary. MMA fans and analysts alike expect a high-paced, technical battle that could go the distance or end in a dramatic finish.

The fight’s setting in New Orleans adds an emotional layer. Poirier, a Louisiana native, has expressed gratitude for concluding his UFC journey in his home state. In a promotional video, he said, “I’m going to lay my gloves down in Louisiana, where it all started for me. The journey started there.” This hometown backdrop will no doubt fuel Poirier’s performance and energize the crowd.

Experts remain divided on the outcome. Some point to Poirier’s previous wins and knockout power as decisive factors, while others highlight Holloway’s volume striking, cardio, and championship experience. MMA analyst Hamish Woodward noted, “This trilogy fight is one of the greatest trilogy-enders of all time. Both fighters bring unique strengths, and the fight could swing either way.”

The UFC 318 card, hosted at the Smoothie King Center, also features notable bouts such as Marvin Vettori vs. Brendan Allen and Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov, but the spotlight firmly rests on the lightweight main event.

Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier III is a fitting climax to a storied rivalry, with Poirier aiming to retire as a legend and Holloway fighting for redemption. The blend of skill, history, and emotion makes this fight a must-watch event that could define both fighters’ legacies. Fans can expect a thrilling contest that honors the spirit of competition and the heart of mixed martial arts.