Dustin Poirier is set to retire. The 36-year-old UFC star, with a 30-9 record, will face Max Holloway for the BMF title at UFC 318 on July 19, 2025, in New Orleans. It’s his final fight, and he’s already planning what’s next. In an ESPN MMA interview, Poirier said he’ll bulk up with steroids after leaving the octagon and stay connected to the sport that shaped his life.
Poirier’s Post-Fight Plans
Poirier’s done with lightweight.
“So this will be the last time I’m ever 155 pounds in my life, I can promise you that,” he told ESPN MMA. “I’m getting on steroids. Once USADA stops knocking on my door and I lay the gloves down, I’m getting jacked and tan. My wife’s like, ‘No you’re not!’ I’m getting on it. That’s the honest truth.”
He’s ready to ditch weight cuts and transform his physique.
He also wants to stay in MMA.
“I want to stay connected to it somehow,” he said. “Hopefully keep getting on with ESPN, or working the desk, just to stay around the sport and be a voice in it, because it’s created the life I have. All I know is this, being connected to it is something that’s important to me.” via MMAMania
Poirier hopes to work as a commentator or analyst.
Born in Louisiana, Poirier started fighting in 2009 and joined the UFC in 2011. He beat Josh Grispi at UFC 125 and became a favorite with wins over Max Holloway in 2012 by submission and 2019 by decision. He won the interim lightweight title in 2019 but lost title fights to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev, the latter at UFC 302 in June 2024. His knockout of Justin Gaethje in 2018 and 2-1 record against Conor McGregor made him a legend.
Poirier meets Holloway for the third time at UFC 318, a five-round BMF title fight at Smoothie King Center. He’s 2-0 against Holloway, but the former featherweight champ holds the BMF belt. Poirier wanted Justin Gaethje or Ilia Topuria, but the UFC chose Holloway for a trilogy. Poirier’s a slight favorite at -120 odds, with Lil Wayne walking him out for his hometown farewell.
After UFC 318, Poirier’s ready to relax. No more diets or USADA tests, just a chance to get jacked and tan.
