With UFC 317 in the books, attention now shifts to a showdown of legends, as Waianae’s Max Holloway is set to headline UFC 318 on July 19 in New Orleans against longtime rival Dustin Poirier.
The bout, which will be contested for the “BMF” title, also marks the final fight of Poirier’s career. The Louisiana native announced that win or lose, he’ll retire after facing Holloway, who he defeated twice previously, including a close decision in 2019 for the interim lightweight championship.
“It’s cool because it’s the first time I’m fighting somebody who’s already announced they’re retiring,” Holloway said. “It’s an honor to be there, but I’m here to spoil the plans. When this fight is done, he’s riding into the sunset no matter what, and I’m here to make sure my hand gets raised and put the 155 division on notice.”
Holloway, a future UFC Hall of Famer, moves back to lightweight for this clash, emphasizing the difference in lifestyle and recovery compared to his long run at featherweight.
“There’s multiple times after training where I’d be hungry again, but now I can eat and feel good,” Holloway said. “Could I still make 145? Yeah. But performing at the level I used to? Probably not, because of how much I was sacrificing in training and recovery. Being at 155 lets me eat right and recover better, it’s been huge.”
As for his trademark walkouts, Holloway hinted fans can expect something special in New Orleans.
“We always think about it way in advance, who’s the opponent, where we’re at, what’s going on,” he said. “With the warrior love for Maui, it meant a lot. The BMF fight with ‘Hawaiian Superman’ meant a lot. This one’s going to be cool. I’m not going to tell you what it is, but listen for it, it’ll be a fun one.”
Poirier holds a 2-0 record over Holloway, dating back to their first meeting in 2012.
UFC 318 is set for July 19 at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
Stay with KHON2 Sports on-air and online for continuing coverage leading up to fight night. We’ll hear more from Holloway’s interview in the coming weeks.