Should Poirier Retire After The Holloway Fight?

Dustin Poirier’s final fight is expected at UFC 318 on July 19 in New Orleans against Max Holloway, but head coach Mike Brown isn’t fully convinced it’ll be the last time, so should he retire?  

Poirier faces Holloway for the BMF title in what he initially described as his farewell fight following a submission loss to Islam Makhachev. Dustin has come up short in title shots against Khabib Nurmagomedov, Charles Oliveira, and Makhachev, as well as in a BMF showdown with Justin Gaethje.

Poirier has already defeated Holloway twice, and with Holloway now holding the BMF belt, UFC 318 gives Poirier a golden opportunity to cap his career with a statement win. Still, Brown admits if the right scenario presents itself, Dustin might not hang up the gloves just yet — even if he hopes this is the final bout. 

Brown Reacts

“I mean, I think so. You can never say never, but he’s done really well for himself. He’s made a boatload of money. He’s set. He doesn’t need to fight. So it would have to be something pretty enticing. I mean, that could always happen. But I think he’s content with his accomplishments and content with the money he has made and what he’s done. So, you know, I think it is,” Brown said 

If Dustin were to continue fight, it would likely be for one of two reasons. The first would be to finally secure a title. Ilia Topuria faces Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight belt after Islam Makhachev moved up to welterweight. A match-up against either of those would sell out, giving Dustin the chance to retire on top. 

Equally, there is the chance to secure a mega payday if Conor McGregor comes back. The Notorious has two fights left on his UFC deal, having lost to Dustin in his last fight. Dustin stopped McGregor at UFC 264 to take his record to 2-1 in their rivalry. McGregor has said he would like a trilogy, setting the narrative for another blockbuster event. Either way, Dustin has to do what is best for him.