Dustin Poirier’s Bittersweet Farewell: The Diamond’s UFC 318 Retirement Plans Revealed

The bright lights of Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi witnessed what may have been the final chapter in Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier’s illustrious career. In a revelation that’s sending shockwaves through the MMA community, Poirier has disclosed that UFC 318 was intended to be his swan song—regardless of the outcome against Max Holloway.

But here’s the thing: his exit wasn’t exactly as he had envisioned it.

The Secret Retirement Plan Nobody Knew About

While fans worldwide tuned in to watch another classic Poirier-Holloway showdown, they were unaware they might be witnessing the Louisiana native’s final walk to the octagon. In a candid post-fight interview, Poirier revealed what only his inner circle knew—win, lose, or draw, UFC 318 was meant to be his final dance.

“I came here planning to announce my retirement after the fight,” Poirier admitted. “My wife knew, my coaches knew. This was it for me.”

I’ve been following Poirier’s career for over a decade, and this revelation hit different. The 35-year-old veteran has always worn his heart on his sleeve, but keeping this massive decision under wraps showed just how focused he remained on the task at hand.

A Finish That Left More Questions Than Answers

The fight itself ended in controversial fashion. After three competitive rounds with Holloway, a deep cut above Poirier’s eye forced the doctor to call the fight, giving “Blessed” the TKO victory. The abrupt ending clearly wasn’t how Poirier had imagined closing the book on his 14-year UFC journey.

“I’m disappointed with how it ended,” Poirier shared. “Not that I lost—Max is incredible—but that I didn’t get to finish on my own terms. That doctor stoppage… it just feels incomplete.”

The Diamond’s Legacy Beyond the Octagon

Whether this truly marks the end or not, Poirier’s impact on MMA extends far beyond his in-cage accomplishments. His Good Fight Foundation has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for various causes, showing that fighters can be champions outside the octagon too.

You probably remember when he auctioned off his fight kit after defeating Conor McGregor to build water wells in Uganda. That’s the Dustin Poirier who will be remembered regardless of how his fighting career concludes.

Will We See Poirier Fight Again?

The big question hovering over the MMA world now is whether the unsatisfying conclusion might tempt Poirier back for one more proper goodbye. When pressed on this, he remained noncommittal.

“I don’t know, man. This isn’t how I pictured walking away. I need time to process everything,” he said. “I’ve given everything to this sport. My body, my time with my family… I need to sit down with my wife and really think about what’s next.”

I can’t help but wonder if we’ll see a farewell fight in his hometown of Lafayette, Louisiana. What a storybook ending that would be for one of the most beloved fighters in UFC history.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: A Career Worth Celebrating

Whether UFC 318 marks the end or not, Poirier’s resume speaks for itself:

• 29 UFC fights spanning 14 years
• Most knockouts in UFC lightweight history (9)
• 11 post-fight bonuses
• Victories over 4 former UFC champions

Not bad for a kid from Lafayette who once worked at a McDonald’s drive-thru before finding his way to the UFC.

What’s Your Favorite Dustin Poirier Memory?

For me, it’s his war with Justin Gaethje in 2018. That fourth-round TKO showcased everything we love about “The Diamond”—heart, technical brilliance, and that never-say-die attitude.

What about you? Drop a comment below with your favorite Poirier moment and whether you think he should have one more fight or ride off into the sunset after UFC 318.

Whatever he decides, Dustin Poirier has earned the right to walk away on his own terms. And if this is truly the end, all I can say is thank you for the memories, Diamond. The sport is better because you were in it.