Dustin Poirier, one of the most respected names in mixed martial arts, has admitted that stepping away from fighting has not been easy. The former interim UFC lightweight champion recently shared how deeply he misses the sport that defined most of his life.
The 36-year-old announced his retirement after his final fight in July against longtime rival Max Holloway in his home state of Louisiana. Holloway earned a decision victory in their trilogy bout at UFC 318, marking the end of Poirier’s remarkable run inside the Octagon.
Following the fight, Poirier had appeared at peace with his decision to retire. However, his recent words show the emotional weight that comes with leaving a career spent under the bright lights.
“Every day, the moment my eyes open,” Poirier answered a fan’s message wondering if he still thinks about fighting. “I’ve done it for two decades, dedicated my life to it. A part of me has died.”
Everyday, the moment my eyes open, I’ve done it for two decades dedicated my life to it…. A part of me has died https://t.co/1y4uV6XORB
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) October 12, 2025
A Storied Career Across Two Divisions
Poirier began his professional journey in 2009, starting with a 7-0 record before joining the WEC and later transitioning to the UFC. Competing first as a featherweight, he quickly made an impression with big wins, including a first-round submission over a young Max Holloway.
His move to the lightweight division in 2015 marked the beginning of an even greater chapter. Known for his relentless style and grit, Poirier became one of the most beloved fighters in the sport. Over the years, he defeated some of the biggest names in MMA, including Conor McGregor, Justin Gaethje, Eddie Alvarez, and Anthony Pettis.
At UFC 236, Poirier captured the interim lightweight championship by beating Holloway in a rematch, cementing his place among the elite. Though he came up short in his attempts to unify the belt against Khabib Nurmagomedov, Charles Oliveira, and Islam Makhachev, his performances earned him immense respect from fans and fighters alike.
Fighting Spirit That Never Fades
Even in retirement, Poirier’s heart remains tied to the cage. His honesty about missing the sport has struck a chord with fans who have followed his career since his early days.
“Trust me I miss it too,” he told one supporter who shared that MMA feels emptier without him.
Trust me I miss it too https://t.co/dwmfvuiMWS
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) October 12, 2025
While Poirier has stated that he is content with his decision, he also hinted that one particular opponent could tempt him to compete again.
Two weeks ago, he tweeted:
“Zuffa Boxing, 12 rounds, me and Nathaniel, I’d do it. Only one more fight I’d take.”
The message appeared to reference Nate Diaz, another veteran of the UFC, and Dana White’s recently launched boxing venture. Poirier and Diaz were previously scheduled to fight in 2018, but the bout was canceled due to Poirier’s hip injury.
Since retiring, Poirier has continued to contribute to the MMA world through commentary and appearances at UFC events. Despite stepping away from active competition, his passion for the sport and his connection to fans remain as strong as ever.
