Dustin Poirier has revealed how he expects the final fight of his career to play out.
‘The Diamond’ will retire after his BMF title bout against Max Holloway at UFC 318 on July 19.
Dustin Poirier is 2-0 in fights against ‘Blessed’. The long-time contender almost snapped the arm of a 19-year-old Holloway when he won their first scrap by submission at UFC 143 in February 2012.
Poirier ended Holloway’s 13-fight winning run when they rematched for the interim lightweight title seven years later – but on that occasion, he was pushed the five-round distance in a close and entertaining striking battle.
Dustin Poirier predicts his retirement fight
Poirier recently sat down with the UFC Countdown for the final time ahead of his retirement bout.
The 36-year-old detailed exactly how he sees himself getting the job done against Holloway.
“In my mind, I get his timing early, beat him to the punch,” Poirier predicted.
“I hit him with shots that hurt him, make him miss, [and] make him pay by being better that night.
“He’s a great fighter, but [on] July 19th, I’m better.”
Dana White pays tribute to Dustin Poirier
Poirier will retire as one of the best 155lb fighters of all time, despite never being the undisputed champion.
A favorite with fans, he is also highly appreciated by the most powerful man in MMA, Dana White.
The UFC CEO paid homage to Poirier as he revealed the real reason UFC 318 will take place in New Orleans.
“I think ESPN posted a list of the last like 11 people that he’s fought,” White said at UFC Nashville on Saturday night.
“Seven of them were former world champions. He’s had an incredible career here.
“We love him, and I mean, we literally did this show for him, this card was built for him.”