UFC 318: A Historic Farewell in Mixed Martial Arts

The eagerly anticipated UFC 318 is set to hit New Orleans on July 19, 2025, in what promises to be a historic event in the world of Mixed Martial Arts. This event marks a pivotal moment as the UFC returns to New Orleans, featuring a highly anticipated trilogy bout between two of the sport's icons, Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier. With the BMF (Baddest Motherf*****) title on the line, fans are in for an unforgettable evening of electrifying action and emotional moments.

Main Event: Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier 3

The main event of UFC 318 is a clash for the ages, where two storied fighters will meet in the octagon for what is Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight. Max Holloway defends his BMF Championship against Poirier, providing a thrilling capstone to a rivalry that has spanned over a decade.

Details:

• Titles on the line: BMF Championship
• Date: July 19, 2025
• Venue: Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Broadcast: ESPN+ PPV (USA), UFC Fight Pass (Global)

Dustin Poirier, a former interim lightweight champion known for his gritty resilience and stellar fights against elite opponents, bids farewell to the octagon in his home state. At 35, Poirier finds himself in an emotional send-off, offering fans a chance to witness his last dance at the pinnacle of his fighting career. This match comes with high stakes as Poirier seeks to cement his legacy against a familiar foe.

Max Holloway, a former featherweight king and current BMF champion, enters the fight seeking redemption and validation. After previously falling short against Poirier, Holloway aims to establish his dominance as he moves up to the lightweight division full-time. The BMF title, claimed spectacularly with a knockout against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300, adds even more prestige to his reign.

The Trilogy's Journey

This trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway takes the audience on a historical journey that began in 2012. In their initial encounter at UFC 143, Poirier submitted a young Holloway via a triangle armbar, setting the stage for their future battles. The rivalry reignited in 2019 when they faced off for the interim lightweight title, with Poirier emerging victorious in a grueling five-round battle. Now, at UFC 318, this rivalry finds its poetic end as they face off once more, each fighter carrying the weight of their previous encounters into the octagon.

Holloway's BMF Title Reign

Max Holloway's ascent to BMF champion was solidified at UFC 300 with an unforgettable knockout against Justin Gaethje. Holloway’s journey through the ranks has been marked by memorable fights and spectacular victories, establishing him as one of the UFC's top draws.

Poirier's Career and Legacy

Dustin Poirier’s career has transcended the octagon, known as much for his commendable fighting style as his noble character and philanthropic efforts. All eyes will be on Poirier as he seeks to end his career on a high note, contributing to what is expected to be a deeply emotional event.