Mixed martial arts fans’ eyes are on the main event of UFC 318, where American Dustin Poirier will face Hawaiian Max Holloway in a high-stakes fight marking their third meeting.
🔥 Dustin Poirier takes on Max Holloway in their final dance inside the Octagon!
A clash of grit, honor, and pure fire…
The ending? It’s gonna be explosive! 🧨🧨🧨#UFC318 #TheDiamond #Holloway pic.twitter.com/Tp4t7UFy2T
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) July 18, 2025
In their previous two encounters, Poirier won both: first by submission at UFC 143 in 2012, then by judges’ decision at UFC 236 in 2019. This fight represents Poirier’s last chance before his announced UFC retirement, adding an emotional edge, while bookmakers favor Holloway with odds ranging from 1.70 to 2.05.
What do the fighters say about the fight?
Despite bookmakers’ predictions, UFC fighters’ opinions differ widely. A survey of fighters across different weight classes yielded the following:
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Steve Garcia (featherweight): “They’re my two favorite fighters. But I think Max will win in the end. I hope Dustin wins his retirement fight, but these two are so evenly matched that Dustin can’t win all three fights.”
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Marcos McGee (bantamweight): “It’s tough, both are machines and legends. I think Max has a rematch to take and will get the job done. I lean toward Max, but honestly, whoever wins, I’ll be happy.”
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Max Griffin (welterweight): “I’ve always supported Max, but this time I’m picking Dustin Poirier. I think Dustin will finish the fight with a big win.”
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Eric Anders (middleweight): “Poirier has a 2-0 record against Holloway, and he’s fighting at 70 kg, a weight where he’s more successful. This is his last fight at home, and I think he’ll end his career with a victory.”
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Diego Ferreira (lightweight): “I’m sticking with Poirier. I think he’s motivated and eager to finish his career with a home win. He’s already beaten Max twice, so he has a psychological edge.”
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Drakkar Klose (lightweight): “I like them both, but I think Dustin Poirier will win again and continue to shine.”
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Austin Lingo (heavyweight): “I like Max Holloway, but I saw Dustin Poirier training at ATT in great shape. I’m betting on Poirier, but it will be a classic, unforgettable fight.”
Analysis: Why do fighters favor Poirier while bookmakers back Holloway?
While bookmakers lean toward Holloway, cage professionals believe Poirier’s experience against the same opponent, his two previous wins, and his motivation to deliver a great final performance in his hometown strengthen his chances.
Meanwhile, Holloway boasts a strong record and huge popularity and appears to be in excellent physical and technical form, making the fight wide open.
🎙️ Max Holloway explains why he said Justin Gaethje hits harder than Ilia Topuria:
"With Justin, I felt the power.
But Ilia just put me to sleep — I didn’t feel a thing, so it’s hard to judge." 😅🥊#UFC #Holloway #Topuria #Gaethje pic.twitter.com/CXBeaU3ghE
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) July 18, 2025
Conclusion
The Poirier vs Holloway 3 fight is not just a bout but an epic story filled with memories, challenges, and strong will from both fighters. As everyone awaits the outcome, this event undoubtedly remains historic in UFC history.
Will Poirier end his career with an emotional victory? Or will Holloway cement his dominance in the featherweight division? The coming days will tell.
