What reasons did Dustin Poirier have for wanting Justin Gaethje as his retirement opponent? How does Poirier view his upcoming fight against Max Holloway in terms of legacy? What were the UFC’s considerations for matching Poirier with Holloway instead of other fighters? What statements did Poirier make about respect and rivalry regarding Holloway and Gaethje? Why did Poirier believe a matchup with Ilia Topuria was feasible for his retirement fight?
Dustin Poirier admits it "was a blindside" when the UFC came to him with Max Holloway as his retirement opponent, especially because he proposed different names. Poirier’s (30-9 MMA, 22-8 UFC) highly anticipated final MMA fight is official for the UFC 318 main event on July 19 when he will challenge Holloway (26-9 MMA, 22-8 UFC) for the BMF belt in a trilogy bout in the lightweight division, which takes place at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
According to Poirier, who already holds two victories over Holloway in 2012 and 2019, his first choice for his swan song was Justin Gaethje, whom he is 1-1 against in their series with each man holding a knockout victory. "I was asking for Gaethje," Poirier told MMA Junkie. "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."
When Poirier said it was "legends only" for his retirement contest, there was some speculation, fuelled by a take from former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo, that Ilia Topuria would be the opponent after he changed his nickname to "The Legend." Poirier, 36, said a showdown with Topuria was on his wish list for the retirement fight, too, but ultimately the UFC brass wasn’t keen on making that pairing, and it was Holloway on the other side of the contract. "Not once (did they offer Topuria)," Poirier said. "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’s Wish List for UFC Retirement Before Facing Max Holloway
Dustin Poirier, a name synonymous with heart, skill, and charisma in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), has long been a revered figure in the UFC. His remarkable career features remarkable wins, fierce rivalries, and personal growth that extends beyond the octagon. As Poirier approaches the later stages of his professional fighting career, his thoughts on retirement and the legacy he wishes to leave behind have become increasingly poignant. Before his highly anticipated bout against Max Holloway, Poirier crafted a wish list reflecting his aspirations and the kind of closure he desires as he transitions into the next chapter of his life.
Balancing Legacy and the Future
Poirier’s career is distinguished not only by his skill but also by the demeanor he exhibits both during and after fights. Despite the pressures of competition, he has consistently aimed to foster a positive environment within the sport. His wish list for retirement epitomizes this desire to not only leave a legacy of greatness through his fights but also to serve as an inspiration for the next generation of fighters.
One of Poirier’s primary wishes revolves around achieving a sense of completeness in his fighting career. As a competitor who has faced numerous elite fighters, including conquests over legends like Conor McGregor, Eddie Alvarez, and Justin Gaethje, Poirier aspires to face the very best opponents before stepping away from the sport. The matchup against Max Holloway, a fighter he has faced twice before and holds a shared history with, presents an opportunity not just to settle the score but to etch his name further into the annals of UFC history.
Fighting with Purpose
In combat sports, having a purpose can fuel an athlete’s determination. For Poirier, his underlying motivation transcends accolades; it is about representing his family, his hometown of Lafayette, Louisiana, and the values instilled in him by his upbringing. Each fight carries weight, not only for personal achievement but also for the inspiration it provides to aspiring fighters, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.
Poirier has often expressed a desire to compete for titles and to regain championship gold before calling it a career. His pursuit of glory is closely tied to the narrative he wishes to create—one that showcases overcoming adversity, resilience, and tenacity. Every match is a chance to elevate not just his standing but to shed light on the resilience intrinsic to athletes who face both physical and emotional challenges.
The Impact of Max Holloway
Poirier’s relationship with Max Holloway is complex, characterized by fierce competition and mutual respect. Their two previous encounters serve as a testament to both athletes’ tenacity, with each fight marking a milestone in both their careers. The first bout in 2012 saw a young Poirier suffering a defeat, but the rematch in 2019 resulted in a hard-fought victory for Poirier, solidifying his position as one of the top fighters in the lightweight division.
Facing Holloway a third time brings with it myriad implications. For Poirier, a decisive victory could enhance his legacy and provide the kind of closure he seeks as he eyes retirement. It is a chance to prove once more that he belongs among the elite in a weight class rich with talent. Moreover, competing against Holloway allows Poirier to revisit his growth as a fighter, highlighting the evolution he has experienced since their first meeting.
Contributing Beyond the Octagon
As Poirier reflects on his impending retirement, his desire to impact the sport positively outside the octagon becomes evident. He has been active in philanthropy, using his platform to support numerous charitable initiatives, particularly for children and fighters in need. His work through the Good Fight Foundation reflects a commitment to giving back to the community, an aspect that Poirier considers crucial as he approached retirement.
Poirier’s wish list is not solely confined to personal goals or achievements; it is also infused with intentions to elevate others and contribute to a better environment for future athletes. He envisions himself as an ambassador for the sport, imparting wisdom and compassion while continuing to engage with fans and aspiring fighters.
The Road Ahead
As Dustin Poirier gears up to face Max Holloway for potentially the final time, the stakes are higher than ever. He stands on the precipice of concluding a monumental chapter in his life. His wish list encapsulates his desire for closure, legacy, and the impact he hopes to leave behind—both inside and outside the octagon.
While every fighter dreams of accolades and championship belts, Poirier’s aspirations transcend the physical trophies. He seeks to be remembered as a fighter who showcased bravery, heart, and a commitment to bettering the sport he loves. The fight against Holloway is not merely another match; it is a pivotal moment in which Poirier can carve out the ending he envisions for his story—a celebration of resilience, skill, and purpose that will resonate for years to come.
As the spotlight shines on both athletes, fans eagerly await a battle steeped in history, hoping to witness a moment that encapsulates the essence of mixed martial arts. In doing so, Poirier hopes to ensure that his legacy will endure, inspiring fighters and fans alike long beyond his retirement.
Dustin Poirier has expressed his desire to achieve certain milestones in his UFC career before considering retirement. He aims for memorable matchups and a chance to reclaim a championship title. Notably, fighting Max Holloway again is on his list, as their previous bouts were significant moments in his career. Poirier emphasizes a focus on meaningful fights that resonate with both him and the fans, aiming to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.