Dustin Poirier is preparing for his final fight before stepping away from the sport. After months of speculation about his farewell opponent, it appears that UFC lightweight contender Beneil Dariush may have just leaked the big reveal.
Poirier, a former interim lightweight champion, has been a fan favorite for years thanks to his all-action fighting style and warrior mentality. However, after suffering a tough submission loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 302, he openly considered retirement. Following much deliberation, Poirier confirmed that he would return for one last fight, but he remained tight-lipped about his opponent. He did, however, insist that it would be against a “legend” of the sport—someone who has made a lasting impact in the Octagon.
Now, according to Beneil Dariush, that opponent might be none other than Max Holloway, setting up a highly anticipated trilogy fight between two of the UFC’s most exciting strikers.
Poirier vs. Holloway 3 – A Trilogy to Remember?
While fans have debated potential matchups for Poirier’s last dance, Dariush recently dropped a major hint that the UFC has already locked in his opponent. In an interview with Submission Radio, he revealed that from what he has heard, Poirier vs. Holloway 3 is the plan.
Dariush said:
My understanding is Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway are going to fight,” Dariush said. “That’s what I’m hearing. I don’t know if it’s 100 percent sealed and done, but that’s what I’m hearing.
This revelation sent shockwaves through the MMA community, as Poirier and Holloway share a rich history inside the Octagon. Their first encounter took place in 2012, when a young and relatively unknown Holloway made his UFC debut against Poirier. That night, Poirier submitted Holloway in the very first round, handing the Hawaiian a rough welcome to the promotion.
Seven years later, in 2019, the two warriors met again, this time under very different circumstances. Holloway had gone on to become a dominant featherweight champion, while Poirier had established himself as one of the most dangerous lightweights in the world. They fought for the interim UFC lightweight title at UFC 236, and despite Holloway’s heart and durability, Poirier emerged victorious after an absolute war, securing a unanimous decision win.
Now, with both men nearing the final chapters of their careers, a trilogy fight could serve as the perfect ending to Poirier’s legendary journey.
Why Poirier vs. Holloway 3 Makes Sense
There are several reasons why the UFC would choose to book this fight for Poirier’s farewell. For starters, it’s a matchup between two fan favorites who have always delivered fireworks in the Octagon. Poirier’s powerful boxing and relentless pressure, combined with Holloway’s volume striking and granite chin, would guarantee an action-packed fight from start to finish.
Beyond the stylistic excitement, there is also the narrative element. Poirier has already beaten Holloway twice, but in both fights, Holloway showed tremendous heart. For Holloway, a third chance to finally get a win over “The Diamond” would add extra motivation. Meanwhile, for Poirier, there’s no better way to sign off than by facing a fellow legend who shares his fighting spirit.
Another major factor is that Poirier has been adamant about fighting a legend for his farewell. Holloway is a former featherweight champion with multiple title defenses and is widely regarded as one of the greatest 145-pound fighters of all time. A fight with Holloway not only meets Poirier’s criteria but also ensures his final bout is a marquee event worthy of his incredible career.
What’s Next?
As of now, the UFC has yet to officially announce Poirier’s retirement fight, but if Dariush’s claim is accurate, it’s only a matter of time before Poirier vs. Holloway 3 is confirmed. Fans around the world will be eager to see if this dream matchup becomes a reality.
Poirier has always been known for putting on thrilling fights, and if this truly is his final walk to the Octagon, there is no doubt that he will leave everything inside the cage. For now, all eyes are on the UFC as they finalize one of the biggest farewell fights in recent memory.
Would you be excited for Poirier vs. Holloway 3? Let us know what you think!
