“I can still do this at the top level for a few more years – there’s no doubt in my mind. But what am I fighting for?” Poirier said. “Is it for a paycheck? I don’t want to disrespect the sport. I’ve always fought to be a champion, so if it’s not for a title, then it’s time to [go] away.” Dustin Poirier recently said while explaining his retirement plans. After 14 years in the UFC — starting back in 2011 — Poirier has finally decided to hang up his gloves as he prepares for the next chapter of his life. As for the venue and opponent? Poirier, a true “fighter’s fighter,” revealed that he would be slugging it out against Max Holloway at UFC 318 in his home state of Louisiana.

Poirier has got exactly what he wanted! A “legends only” fight for his final dance, and with a chance to win the BMF title. Giving another update about his last fight while training at American Top Team, Poirier again spoke to Mike Bohn about his opponent and how he envisions the night unfolding.

“That would be nice, get in, retire clean, go home with no stitches for my daughter. But in true knucklehead fashion, I’m gonna stand in the middle and trade with Max and we’re gonna bleed and put on a show for the last one.” Poirier said. 

For those unfamiliar, the duo has already shared the Octagon twice — first at UFC 143 in 2012 when Holloway made his Octagon debut at age 20 while Poirier was three years his senior. And seven years in 2019 at UFC 236 for the interim lightweight title. Poirier emerged victorious on both occasions, securing a submission win in their first meeting and a hard-fought decision in the rematch. Notably, Poirier captured his only interim UFC title during their second encounter nearly 6 years ago.

Now, as the Louisiana native prepares for his final walk to the cage, this isn’t just another fight — it’s a celebration of a remarkable journey in the world of combat sports. But will this truly mark the end of his MMA career? Time will tell.

Dustin Poirier opens up on retirement plans ahead of final dance 

Dustin Poirier might be done fighting inside the Octagon, but he is nowhere near done with MMA. He has stated his desire to stay connected to the sport once he lays down his gloves. Speaking to Mike Bohn, Poirier shared that he feels comfortable in the desk analyst role he has already experienced with the UFC. He said,

“I think I might have done it, was this the fourth three or fourth, yeah, getting more comfortable like anything? It’s the reps going with the flow kind of feeling comfortable with the people behind the cameras, and uh, I like it, man. I hope they keep bringing me back, yeah.”

For the unversed, ‘The Diamond’ made his commentary debut at UFC 287 and then followed it up on three more occasions, notably at UFC 303, UFC 308, and UFC 314. Poirier also mentioned that he would love to stay involved with MMA after retirement and is ready to return in a different role as soon as the UFC brass calls. However, when it comes to fighting, he is not going to continue, as he never fought just for a paycheck. Poirier made it clear that he fought for titles and legacy as well. In the same interview, he said,

“I’ve been doing this for a long time. I’m good. My family’s good. I want to get out of (the sport) with my faculties and be able to speak and work the (analyst) desk, and be healthy for my daughter and my future kids. I just think it’s time. After 18 years, 19 years in this sport, fighting tooth and nail, bleeding every week, I think it’s a responsible decision and respect to the sport.”

What’s your take on Poirier’s last dance? Do you think this is the best way for him to retire? Tell us in the comments below!