The MMA world is gearing up for an epic showdown at UFC 318, headlined by the emotional and fiercely anticipated retirement bout of Dustin Poirier against Max Holloway. As the fight cards are stacked and fans buzz with speculation, one voice has risen with a bold prediction that’s dropping jaws and stirring conversations — Islam Makhachev, the lightweight powerhouse who holds the record for the most title defenses in the 155-pound division, has confidently forecasted that Poirier will walk away victorious in his final Octagon appearance. This is no casual “nice guy” comment; Islam’s endorsement comes with the respect of shared battles and firsthand knowledge of what The Diamond brings to the cage, both technically and mentally.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Poirier, a veteran with 30 wins under his belt, is stepping into the cage for the last time, ready to etch his legacy even deeper. Opposite him, Max Holloway, a relentless BMF champion, is gunning for redemption in the trilogy bout that promises fireworks from the opening bell. With the event set for July 19 at New Orleans’ Smoothie King Center, this Pay-Per-View is already shaping up as a Fight Night goldmine, drawing eyes from casual fans to hardcore MMA enthusiasts worldwide.
But what makes this showdown even juicier is Makhachev’s insider take. Having submitted Poirier in a Fight of the Year contender at UFC 302 back in June 2024, Islam’s perspective isn’t just respectful — it’s tactical, knowing the strengths Poirier will unleash when it matters most. And considering the meticulous breakdowns found in The Octagon Beat’s pound-for-pound rankings, Poirier’s legacy is far from over. It’s his last dance, and Makhachev believes this will bring out the ferocity and strategy that made Poirier one of MMA’s finest. Let’s dive deep into why Islam is throwing down this gauntlet and what it means for UFC 318’s headlining spectacle.
Islam Makhachev’s Strategic Insight: Why Dustin Poirier Will Win the UFC 318 Retirement Fight
Forget the usual hype and fan wishful thinking. When Islam Makhachev says Dustin Poirier will walk out with a win, it’s like hearing from the sharpest analyst in the room who’s already been down in the trenches against The Diamond. Makhachev’s own record, standing tall at 27-1 MMA and 16-1 in UFC fights, backs his words with credibility. Poirier, meanwhile, carries a 30-9 MMA record and is closing in on his final rodeo.
This prediction is soaked in real fight IQ. Islam knows the resilience and fight toolkit Poirier has honed over years of bloody wars. Particularly eye-opening is their history: back in February 2012, Poirier and Holloway first clashed with Poirier taking an early edge. Fast forward, their thrilling 2019 five-round clash showcased how much The Diamond can push the pace and absorb punishment — his chin as solid as his will to win, even when things looked grim. Islam sees that in Poirier’s last bout, this warrior spirit will blaze hotter than ever.
- Mental Fortitude: Knowing it’s a farewell bout often sharpens a fighter’s focus to surgical levels.
- Physical Preparedness: Poirier’s camp has had months to dial in strategies tailored to Holloway’s BMF-style aggression.
- Historical Advantage: 2 wins against Holloway in their trilogy set a psychological edge.
- Technical Versatility: Poirier’s mix of grappling, striking, and brutal ground-and-pound keeps opponents guessing.
- Respect and Rivalry Dynamics: The duo’s competitive fire tends to explode in spectacular combat.
Islam’s prediction isn’t just some feel-good guestimate about emotions running high; it’s a breakdown rooted in hardcore experience and understanding. “He told me this is his last fight, and I think he’s going to be ready,” Makhachev told MMA Junkie. “He’s going to win, I think.” When a lightweight titan with a reputation as rock-solid as Islam’s steps into analysis mode, you better listen. This isn’t just hype; it’s a forecast from a man who eats fight strategy for breakfast.
| Fighter | Overall MMA Record | UFC Record | Notable Wins | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dustin Poirier | 30-9 | 22-8 | Conor McGregor, Eddie Alvarez, Max Holloway | Grappling, striking, endurance, mental toughness |
| Max Holloway | 26-8 | 22-8 | Jose Aldo, Frankie Edgar, Calvin Kattar | Volume striking, cardio, pressure fighting |
| Islam Makhachev | 27-1 | 16-1 | Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira, Thiago Moises | Wrestling, ground control, submission skills |
How Makhachev’s Respect for Poirier Fuels His Prediction
It’s no secret that MMA is a cage full of beasts, but it also breeds respect that often flies under the radar amidst the punches and trash talk. Islam Makhachev doesn’t just see Poirier as an opponent he once submitted; he respects him as a genuine warrior and stand-up guy. Out of all the men he’s crossed paths with inside the cage, Islam singles out Poirier and Alexander Volkanovski as models of humility and class.
When a fighter acknowledges respect with the same intensity they bring into a Pay-Per-View main event, it’s revealing. Makhachev admitted, “I send them messages.” That shared mutual respect adds a human layer beyond the blood, sweat, and ferocity. It’s the kind of acknowledgment that deepens understanding of a fighter’s spirit and why they might shine brightest on the most important nights.
What UFC 318’s Main Event Means for MMA’s Lightweight Division and Legacy
In a landscape dotted with flashy newcomers and rising stars, UFC 318 represents more than just a retirement bout. It’s a crossroads — a farewell to a stalwart and a test for legacies in an ultra-competitive lightweight division. For Dustin Poirier, walking away on a high note is not just a personal victory; it’s a message to the sport about endurance, adaptation, and heart.
Max Holloway, known affectionately as “Blessed,” isn’t just a spoiler; he’s a legitimate threat to Poirier’s send-off. Holloway’s wrestling and volume striking make him a nightmare matchup for anyone who doesn’t bring absolute awareness and stamina. He always fights like he’s got a ravenous crowd on his back, pushing his cardio to the limits, which often outlast opponents’ gas tanks.
So why does Makhachev think Poirier has an edge here when the BMF belt is on the line? Simple — Poirier has history and grit that cannot be taught in any gym, no matter how fancy. He’s taken brutal punishment and risen repeatedly, earning scars that speak louder than any pre-fight promo. Holloway might be relentless, but even that kind of assault needs careful navigation.
- Psychological Warfare: Poirier’s two previous wins over Holloway set the stage mentally.
- Retirement Drive: The hunger to go out as a legend, fueling motivation.
- Strategic Coaching: Access to top-tier UFC analysts and camps refining game plans.
- Fan Support and Energy: Playing a role in momentum during live Pay-Per-View events.
- Experience Factor: Decades worth of cage savvy and championship fights.
Looking at recent data on MMA rankings and UFC threats, the lightweight division remains a hotbed of talent, but every era needs its grand finale. UFC 318 could be that. Safe to say, it’s more than just a fight — it’s a passing of the torch moment wrapped in sweat and punches. Expect fireworks that remind fans why this sport is the wildest, most brutal Chess match on Earth.
| Event | Date | Venue | Main Event | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UFC 302 | June 2024 | Las Vegas | Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier | Fight of the Year contender, Poirier submitted |
| UFC 318 | July 19, 2025 | Smoothie King Center, New Orleans | Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway | Poirier’s retirement bout, BMF belt on the line |
| UFC 317 | March 2025 | State Farm Arena, Atlanta | Khaos Williams vs Gustafsson | Notable Fight Night event |
Pay-Per-View and Fan Engagement: The Business Side of UFC 318
When worth is measured in eyeballs, UFC 318 is a Pay-Per-View goldmine. Dustin Poirier’s last dance means more than his personal story — it’s a banner event that pushes sale numbers and fan engagement through the roof. Holloway brings his legion of hardcore followers eager to see their champion go all out. Together, the matchup perfectly blends legacy, rivalry, and spectacle.
The business of MMA isn’t just about who wins or loses; it’s about creating moments that MMA fans will talk about for years. UFC 318’s billing on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View and ESPN channels guarantees global reach. Promos, podcasts, and behind-the-scenes content drip excitement, building anticipation like a powder keg ready to explode.
- Record-breaking Buy Rates: A retirement fight with Holloway’s star power is a recipe for heavy sales.
- Global Audience: UFC’s expanding footprint bringing viewership from Paris to New Orleans.
- Social Media Buzz: Clips, memes, and fighter banter heating timelines well before fight night.
- Media Coverage: Features on Joe Rogan’s commentary, linking MMA with mainstream culture (Joe Rogan & Michael Jordan talk MMA).
- Sponsorship Deals: Big brand investments riding the wave of the event hype.
Technical Breakdown: How Dustin Poirier’s Versatility Outmatches Max Holloway at UFC 318
Let’s drop the fluff and get into the nuts and bolts of why Makhachev’s pick isn’t just sentiment — it’s technical mastery appreciating technical mastery. Poirier’s strength lies in his ability to mix up striking, grappling, and ground-and-pound in ways that break opponents down bite by bite.
Max Holloway’s known for his relentless striking volume and cardio; he’s that pressure cooker who never lets up. But high volume isn’t magic—it’s a game of attrition, and Poirier’s defensive wrestling and clinch work can blunt that assault if executed well. That’s where experience plays a monstrous role: Poirier has seen it all; he’s turned the tide against furious strikers more than once.
- Striking Nuance: Poirier’s timing and precision can counter Holloway’s barrage.
- Quality over Quantity: Poirier aims for strategic power strikes instead of a hailstorm.
- Grappling Prowess: The ground game Poirier brings can neutralize Holloway’s aggression.
- Round Management: Poirier knows how to pace himself through the gruelling five-rounds.
- Mental Game: Calm and collected under pressure — a trait that often wins fights.
Some might say Poirier’s defense can be like “the Wi-Fi at Starbucks: unpredictable, flaky, but somehow still loved by fans.” Fair critique — but remember, even the Rangers get the puck in the net sometimes. The real deal is how he bounces back, adapts, and lands when it counts. Holloway’s volume is impressive, but landing numbers alone don’t win you championships — timing and damage do.
| Skill Area | Dustin Poirier | Max Holloway | Impact on Fight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Striking | Powerful, tactical, precision-based | High-volume pressure, cardio-driven | Poirier’s accuracy can disrupt Holloway’s rhythm |
| Grappling | Solid defense and offensive transitions | Less emphasis, focused on stand-up | Grappling could neutralize Holloway’s striking momentum |
| Cardio | Good, but has been tested over lengthy rounds | Exceptional, known for relentless pace | Could be a factor if fight goes long, but Poirier’s experience helps conserve energy |
| Mentality | Seasoned veteran, calm under pressure | Fierce competitor, relentless mindset | Experience versus aggression battle |
Training Camp and Preparations: Poirier’s Last Round
For a fighter going out on a high, the training camps are like the final chess game. Poirier’s team knows this better than anyone. Months of drilling, strategic sparring, and recovery are calibrated to peak at exactly UFC 318. From tweaking takedown defense (because let’s be honest, sometimes that defense is like “ma grand-mère cherchant ses lunettes” — desperate flailing included) to fine-tuning striking combos, this camp is about smart punches and not just any punches.
Working with experts and analyzing the best in the division, Poirier’s approach highlights:
- Enhanced takedown defense: Minimizing grappling threats from Holloway.
- Striking diversity: Mixing up jabs, hooks, and kicks for unpredictability.
- Conditioning optimization: Ensuring energy levels hold peak through five rounds.
- Mental resilience drills: Reinforcing focus amidst fight night chaos.
- Game plan flexibility: Adapting mid-fight based on Holloway’s moves.
With such intense prep, it’s clear Poirier’s plan is to step into the Octagon on July 19 with fire in his eyes and a tactical plan to dismantle Holloway’s relentless pressure.
Legacy and the Emotional Weight of Poirier’s Final UFC Appearance
When fighters step into their farewell bout, it’s never just about the win-loss column. Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight is a culmination of grit, growth, and a lifelong love affair with the sport of MMA. The anticipation is thick, filled with memories of epic wars and triumphs that shaped the lightweight division.
More than 40 mixed-martial-arts bouts, multiple championship bouts, and heart-stopping finishes define Poirier’s journey. Every bruise, every victory, every near fall tells a story that unfolded in the Octagon, watched by millions globally.
Makhachev’s nod to Poirier’s character — labeling him a “very good guy” and one of the couple he truly respects — adds a layer of humanity to the spectacle. Respect between warriors in this cage-world is rare and precious.
- Emotional Closure: Fans witnessing the final chapter of a beloved fighter.
- Inspiration: A tale of perseverance for upcoming fighters and fans.
- Evolution of the Sport: Marking eras in UFC history with moments like this.
- Camaraderie and Respect: Fighters connecting beyond rivalries.
- Future Pathways: What Poirier leaves behind for the next generation.
Events like UFC 318 are why MMA remains the sport of heart and strategy, not just of brute force. Poirier’s final steps in the cage will echo long after the crowd fades, reminding everyone why the martial artist’s spirit reigns supreme.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total MMA Fights | 39 |
| UFC Championship Bouts | 6 |
| Wins Over Top Opponents | Conor McGregor, Eddie Alvarez, Max Holloway |
| Retirement Announcement | Declared prior to UFC 318 headliner |
| Makhachev’s Respect Level | High; shared messages, personal admiration |