Dustin Poirier officially retired from mixed martial arts after UFC 318 in his hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. The card, titled “The Last Dance,” saw Poirier face Max Holloway for the BMF title in a trilogy bout. Despite a competitive effort, Poirier lost via decision.
Since stepping away from the Octagon, Poirier has expressed mixed feelings about retirement, admitting in multiple interviews that he still wrestles with the idea of competition.
One Last Match in Zuffa Boxing
Though Poirier intends to stay retired from MMA, he has revealed a single fight that could draw him back — in boxing. The former lightweight champion recently referenced a potential bout in Zuffa Boxing, the new promotion led by Dana White, which has signed an exclusive broadcast deal with Paramount.
“Zuffa Boxing, 12 rounds me and Nathaniel I’d do it. Only 1 more fight I’d take,” Poirier posted on X on September 30th, 2025.
Zuffa Boxing 12rnds me and Nathaniel I’d do it. Only 1 more fight I’d take
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) September 30, 2025
We not even going anywhere but someone asked me,… I’m retired I’m done but Nate is one that got away https://t.co/JRDNqolwJH
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) September 30, 2025
Targeting Nate Diaz
The Louisiana native is specifically eyeing Nate Diaz, a longtime rival. Throughout their UFC careers, the two were often linked to a matchup that never materialized.
After Poirier retired, Diaz reignited their rivalry online, mocking Poirier’s UFC 318 loss and drawing attention to a potential future bout. Diaz’s last UFC appearance came in 2022, when he defeated Tony Ferguson, though fans have repeatedly called for his return, particularly for a boxing matchup.
Boxing as a Comeback Route
In recent years, many former UFC fighters have transitioned to boxing for high-profile fights, and Poirier’s skill set lends itself well to the sport. As a former UFC competitor known for his striking, he could translate his abilities effectively into a boxing contest.
Zuffa Boxing, launching in 2026, is looking to establish major bouts, and a Poirier vs. Diaz fight would immediately draw attention. While Diaz has expressed interest in facing Terence Crawford next, a Poirier matchup could provide another headline-grabbing event for the new league.
For Poirier, this would be a one-off return. “Only 1 more fight I’d take,” he clarified, signaling that while he remains retired from MMA, he could step into the ring one final time for the right opponent under the right circumstances.
