As UFC 318 approaches, setting the stage for a highly anticipated trilogy bout, all eyes are on the clash between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier. This fight carries significant weight, not only for the BMF title on the line but also due to Poirier`s stated intention to retire after competing in his home state of Louisiana. Amidst the build-up, the BMF titleholder, Max Holloway, has shared a compelling vision for how this rubber match might conclude – a scenario that could echo one of the most memorable moments in recent UFC history.
Holloway, known for his relentless pace and striking artistry, captured the BMF title at UFC 300 with a highlight-reel knockout of Justin Gaethje. What made that finish particularly iconic was the build-up in the final seconds of the fifth round. With the fight seemingly in the bag on points, Holloway made a now-famous gesture: pointing directly at the canvas at the center of the octagon. This wasn`t just showmanship; it was an unmistakable invitation to Gaethje, the embodiment of controlled chaos, for one final, wild exchange. Gaethje, true to form and the spirit of the BMF title, obliged. The result? A devastating, last-second knockout that instantly became a viral sensation and solidified Holloway`s legacy.
Holloway Believes Poirier Will Embrace the Chaos
Now, facing Dustin Poirier for a third time – a competitor with whom he shares a long history and mutual respect – Holloway believes “The Diamond” is the perfect dance partner for a similar, spontaneous moment of mutual destruction if their bout reaches the championship rounds. Speaking on the possibility of a repeat of the “point down” gesture and subsequent brawl, Holloway expressed confidence in Poirier`s willingness to engage.
“I`m 100 percent sure he would,” Holloway stated regarding Poirier`s potential reaction to such an invitation. “Last dance. Last 10 seconds. Point down to the ground. He might even do it. I`m 100 percent sure he`s going to bring it.”
This confidence isn`t unfounded. Dustin Poirier holds the record for the most “Fight of the Night” bonuses in UFC history, a testament to his penchant for engaging in thrilling, high-stakes wars inside the octagon. The prospect of his career potentially culminating in his home state, against a legendary rival, with the BMF title on the line, seems tailor-made for the kind of dramatic, unrestrained finish Holloway envisions.
“Hearing those words excites me,” Holloway added. “If it`s a war he wants, it`s a war he`s going to get. 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.” The BMF belt, after all, represents precisely this spirit of fearless, fan-friendly fighting.
Holloway has successfully initiated these chaotic, last-second exchanges before, not just against Gaethje, but also earlier in his career against Ricardo Lamas. It`s a high-risk, high-reward strategy that fits his `Blessed Era` persona.
The Stakes and Future Implications
Should Holloway successfully defend his BMF title at UFC 318, it would place him squarely in contention for major bouts. While a potential lightweight title challenge against Ilia Topuria looms – a fighter Holloway previously lost to before moving up a division – a victory over Poirier could also set the stage for a highly anticipated rematch with Justin Gaethje, especially given the dramatic ending of their first encounter.
Regardless of future opponents, the immediate focus is UFC 318. The potential for Poirier`s storied career to end in such a spectacular, unpredictable fashion, orchestrated by Holloway`s unique fight IQ and willingness to embrace chaos, adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling main event. Will Poirier oblige the gesture? Will we witness another unforgettable, last-second brawl for the BMF title? The possibility itself is enough to excite fight fans worldwide.
