Max Holloway Ends Poirier’s Final Fight with a Bang as UFC 318 Delivers Fireworks

July 20, 2025: UFC 318 was unforgettable—for both the end of an era and the rise of renewed rivalries. In a main event that marked the final chapter of Dustin Poirier’s storied MMA career, it was Max Holloway who stood tall, defending his BMF title in a decisive unanimous decision victory.

Poirier, 36, walked away from the octagon one final time, not with a win, but with the respect of the entire MMA world. After being honored with a tribute video, “The Diamond” reflected on his legacy:

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“I’ve been going through fighting and grinding for the next thing… but this week has been incredible. I feel loved by the fans, Louisiana, and the company.”

Although Holloway had lost both previous bouts against Poirier, he flipped the script in their third encounter, showcasing sharp striking and body work that wore the veteran down. Poirier had his moment late in Round 2 with a takedown and brutal ground-and-pound, but Holloway weathered it and surged ahead, dominating the stats with 113 significant head strikes and 46 to the body.

Holloway acknowledged the moment belonged to Poirier but fired a warning to the rest of the division:

“A lot of motherf***ers coming after this belt. Come get me.”

In the co-main event, Brazilian powerhouse Paulo Costa outstruck Roman Kopylov for a unanimous decision win (30-27, 30-27, 29-28), then reignited his feud with Khamzat Chimaev.

“Everybody knows I hate that guy,” Costa raged. “Chimaev, you are a coward. I will not stop until I get to you.”

Meanwhile, Australia’s Jimmy Crute pulled off a much-needed victory, submitting Marcin Prachnio with a slick armbar in Round 1. It was Crute’s first UFC win since 2020, and the 29-year-old believes a title run is finally in sight.

“I see a world title in my picture for the first time in my career.”

Crute called out Dustin Jacoby for a future showdown at UFC Fight Night in Perth, hoping to ride this momentum further.

From emotional retirements to explosive callouts, UFC 318 had it all—and the road ahead looks just as thrilling.