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Dustin Poirier hints at comeback after UFC retirement with unexpected boxing callout

Originally posted on HITC | By Jamie Theodosi | Last updated Sep 30, 2025 12:27 PM ET

Dustin Poirier has not been retired for long, but he already seems to be rethinking his decision.

Back in July at UFC 318, Dustin Poirier made his final walk to the Octagon against Max Holloway for the BMF title. The event was held in Louisiana, giving him a chance to say goodbye in front of his home fans.

But it did not go as planned. Holloway put on a dominant performance across all five rounds, and ‘The Diamond’ left without the result he had hoped for.

Even though he has stepped away from fighting, Poirier has been open about how difficult it has been to fully let go. He says he still goes back and forth over whether or not walking away was the right call.

Dustin Poirier issues surprise call for boxing fight

Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

After stepping away from the UFC, Poirier also mentioned he might consider trying steroids in retirement, following a path similar to what Donald Cerrone chose after leaving the sport.

But it seems like those plans might be on hold. Just a few months into his retirement, the Louisiana native is already hinting at a possible return to fighting.

Zuffa Boxing, led by Dana White, recently struck an exclusive deal with Paramount. The move follows a similar partnership the UFC announced not long ago.

In that landscape, Poirier has asked the promotion to fight Nate Diaz in a 12-round bout.

Zuffa Boxing 12rnds me and Nathaniel I'd do it. Only 1 more fight I'd take
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) September 30, 2025

“Zuffa Boxing, 12 rounds me and Nathaniel I’d do it. Only 1 more fight I’d take,” he posted on X.

‘The Diamond’ and Diaz have had a running feud for years. Even when both were active in the UFC, there were multiple rumours about them being set up to fight each other.

Diaz last fought in 2022 when he picked up a win over Tony Ferguson. Since then, there has been steady pressure from fans for him to come back – especially with many still hoping he will eventually complete his trilogy with Conor McGregor.

Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

Should Dustin Poirier consider a boxing match?

Retired UFC fighters have increasingly made comebacks to combat sports in recent years, often choosing to compete in boxing matches.

Poirier was well-regarded as a boxer during his time in the UFC, and many believe his skillset would carry over well into the ring.

A fight against another ex-UFC fighter would make sense. With Diaz’s recent boxing activity, he seems like an ideal opponent for the Louisiana native if he decides to step back into combat sports.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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