UFC 318 Countdown Video Highlights a Legendary Journey for ‘The Diamond’

Dustin Poirier’s Final Fight Set for New Orleans

Louisiana’s own Dustin Poirier is entering the final week of his storied UFC career. After 16 years in the octagon, “The Diamond” will step into the cage one last time on July 19 at UFC 318 in New Orleans. His opponent? None other than Max Holloway, the man Poirier defeated in both their previous matchups, including Holloway’s UFC debut in 2012.

The official "UFC Countdown" to Poirier vs Holloway 3 video, embedded below at the bottom of this story, is a must-watch. It not only captures the stakes of this BMF title fight, but it also honors Poirier’s rise from Lafayette to international superstardom, where he's long been regarded as one of the best to ever do it.

From Local Wrestler to UFC Legend

Poirier first felt the thrill of competition through wrestling as a young teen. By 17, he was boxing. Despite humble beginnings and limited resources, he kept grinding.

With guidance from early mentor and fellow Louisianan Tim Credeur, and later his longtime coach Mike Brown at American Top Team, Poirier carved out a Hall-of-Fame-worthy career.

His UFC debut came in 2011 with a win over Josh Grispi. He welcomed Holloway to the UFC in 2012 with a first-round submission and bested him again in 2019. But it hasn’t all been victories. Poirier admits that some of the toughest losses were defining, pushing him to leave Louisiana to level up.

More Than a Fighter

Through his Good Fight Foundation, Poirier has become one of Louisiana’s most impactful philanthropists, funding numerous giveaways for students, food drives, and medical expenses for families in need.

He’s as respected outside the cage as he is in it.

Family Is What’s Next

As he prepares to retire, Poirier isn’t thinking about titles or stats. His focus is on his family—his wife, Jolie, whom he met in middle school, their daughter, Parker, and a baby boy on the way.

In the UFC 318 feature, Parker leaves him a heartfelt note: “I love you so much. I’m happy you’re done fighting.”

One Last War in the Big Easy

Still, Poirier isn’t going quietly. He wants one more war, one more win. The BMF belt is on the line, and so is his legacy.

Holloway isn’t an easy opponent, and Poirier knows it’s hard to beat someone three times. But as he says in the Countdown feature:

“I’m the man for the job.”

July 19 will be emotional for fight fans across Louisiana and the world. Win or lose, Poirier walks away as one of the most respected fighters to ever do it, a proud representative of his home state, and forever "The King of Lafayette."

Don’t miss it. UFC 318. Poirier vs Holloway III. New Orleans. The final fight.

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