Theo Von will be among a legion of Dustin Poirier supporters present for an emotional farewell in New Orleans.
UFC 318’s fight week has been almost entirely focused on one man and one fight, as Poirier prepares to conclude his memorable MMA career 18 years on from his pro debut.
With the undisputed lightweight title having eluded him, including just last year when Poirier was submitted by Islam Makhachev, ‘The Diamond’ will wrap up his MMA tenure by competing for the symbolic BMF belt.
In the lead-up to Poirier’s retirement fight against Max Holloway, the home favorite has been given his flowers by a host of fellow fighters, fans, and pundits.
Theo Von speaks highly of close friend Dustin Poirier before UFC 318 farewell
Speaking to UFC commentator Brendan Fitzgerald while in attendance at Friday’s Power Slap event in New Orleans, Theo Von looked ahead to his close friend’s farewell in their home state.
The comedian had nothing but positive words for Poirier, describing ‘The Diamond’ as his “hero” and explaining what he means to Louisiana.
“I mean, Dustin, he is my hero. People have heroes, and he’s been a hero for my life,” Von said.
“One thing that is awesome about Dustin is he’s fought long enough that you get to see who he is as a person. And at this point, everybody just loves Dustin for who he is, right?
“I don’t care if he wins, loses — I don’t care if he goes out there and just makes a jambalaya in the ring, it doesn’t matter,” Von continued. “People love Dustin for him. We love Dustin Poirier in this state. He is our champion.
“Personally, I feel lucky just to be able to be close enough to somebody like that once in a while. He’s got a big heart, man.”
Dustin Poirier received retirement letters from Theo Von and more
Von contributed to one of the most emotional moments during Poirier’s final fight week as a UFC athlete.
While ‘The Diamond’ has largely kept his emotions in check and focused on the task at hand against Holloway, ESPN MMA did have Poirier read out retirement letters from some of the closest people in his life.
In addition to his longtime coach Mike Brown, manager, and a former training partner, Von wrote some touching words for Poirier.
“Do I have to continue?” a teary-eyed Poirier asked as the emotions began to get the best of him.
“I wanna keep these,” he added.