Max Holloway is bracing for an all-out war when he takes on Dustin Poirier in the UFC 318 main event. This bout will be contested for Holloway’s BMF title and cap off a legendary career.
For Holloway, 33, it is a chance to avenge two previous losses to Poirier and continue his ascension at lightweight. On the other hand, for Poirier, 36, it’s an opportunity to retire with a win and as champion.
Poirier holds the home-field advantage with UFC 318 taking place in New Orleans, Louisiana, his home state. Additionally, he confirmed this will be his final fight and promises to leave it all in the octagon.
Holloway has made the same vow, aiming to give Poirier a fight to remember. If their previous bouts are any indication, fans can look forward to a thrilling main event.
Holloway recently told MMA Junkie he’s happy to trade shots if Poirier wants a slugfest. Blessed said the BMF title being on the line raises the stakes and makes a toe-to-toe brawl feel even more appropriate.
“If it’s a war [Poirier] wants, it’s a war he’s going to get,” Holloway said in his latest conversation with MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn. “It’s going to be a bunch of knuckleheads in there. I wouldn’t want it any other way, especially with the BMF title on the line.”
Max Holloway Says Dustin Poirier Would Engage in Final Fiery Exchange
Holloway believes Poirier will engage in a final fiery exchange if the moment calls for it. In fact, he is known for pointing to the center of the octagon and inviting his opponents to throw down.
Holloway famously won his BMF title after knocking Justin Gaethje out in a wild finish at UFC 300. He pointed to the canvas and delivered a viral knockout blow to Gaethje in the final second. That exchange earned him $600,000 in bonuses for Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night.
The BMF title holder believes Poirier will accept that same invitation, especially with his retirement looming.
“100 percent sure [Poirier] would [accept],” Holloway said to MMA Junkie. “Last dance, last 10 seconds. Point down to the ground, he might even do it…He’s going to bring it.”
Max Holloway Embracing Villain Role Against Dustin Poirier
Holloway is embracing the villain role as he travels into hostile territory to fight Poirier. Because of this, the crowd will likely favor The Diamond and boo Blessed on fight night.
He admitted that being booed is a rare occurrence given his reputation as one of MMA’s most beloved fighters. Holloway praised Poirier’s fans; however, he expects the crowd to remain respectful after the fight.
Holloway emphasized that their trilogy fight is strictly business and doesn’t have any animosity towards him.
“I should be [the bad guy], that’s the way I’m looking at it,” Holloway said to MMA Junkie. “I want to be the bad guy cause it is his last dance, and I want to get my hand raised… I’ll be the bad guy for maybe a week, 25 minutes, and then when that’s all said and done, I’m not one of these guys that holds grudges.”
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