The time has finally arrived. The first domino of the UFC’s lightweight division’s golden generation is about to fall. It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to one of the toughest and most exciting fighters to ever grace the Octagon – Dustin Poirier. The Louisiana native has announced that his final fight will take place at UFC 318 on July 19 in New Orleans, near his hometown of Lafayette.
Poirier’s last fight has been the talk of the MMA world for quite some time now. Fans have been eagerly waiting to see who his opponent would be and the news has finally been revealed. Ilia Topuria is set to go head to head with the former interim lightweight champion in what promises to be an explosive bout. This will be Poirier’s chance to leave a lasting impression on the fans and end his illustrious career on a high note.
But there is one name that is noticeably absent from the list of Poirier’s potential opponents – Justin Gaethje. The two fighters were scheduled to face each other at UFC 318, but Gaethje turned down the fight, leaving fans disappointed. Poirier recently came clean about the situation, shedding light on why Gaethje refused to fight him.
According to Poirier, Gaethje did not want to face him in his final fight before retirement because he didn’t want to be the one responsible for sending him off with a loss. This is a testament to the respect and admiration that Poirier has earned from his fellow fighters. Gaethje’s decision to decline the fight shows just how much Poirier is revered in the MMA community.
Despite the disappointment of not being able to face Gaethje in his farewell fight, Poirier remains focused and has his sights set on Topuria. And rightfully so, as Topuria is not an opponent to be taken lightly. The undefeated Georgian fighter has been making waves in the MMA world with his impressive performances and poses a real threat to Poirier’s retirement plans.
But Poirier has never shied away from a challenge and this fight will be no different. Throughout his career, Poirier has faced some of the toughest opponents in the lightweight division including Max Holloway, Eddie Alvarez, and Conor McGregor. He has proven time and again that he is not afraid to take on anyone and always brings his A-game to the Octagon.
As Poirier prepares for his final fight, he leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. From his early days as a featherweight, to his rise in the lightweight division, Poirier has established himself as one of the most versatile fighters in the UFC. His well-rounded skills, unbreakable spirit, and never-say-die attitude have earned him the respect and love of fans all over the world.
The 32-year-old fighter has had a remarkable career, with notable wins over some of the biggest names in MMA. He has also been involved in some of the most memorable fights in UFC history, including his epic five-round battle with Dan Hooker in 2020 which was hailed as the Fight of the Year. Poirier’s fights have always been action-packed and full of heart, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
It is bittersweet to see Poirier walk away from the sport that he has dedicated his life to. But this is a decision that he has made with careful consideration and it is one that everyone must respect. Poirier has given his all to the sport and it is only fitting that he ends his career on his own terms.
As Poirier steps into the Octagon for the last time, fans can expect nothing less than an incredible performance from the fighter. Win or lose, Poirier will leave a lasting impact and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of fighters.
So let us celebrate the career of Dustin Poirier and show our appreciation for all that he has done for the sport of MMA. Let us also wish him all the best for his final fight at UFC 318 and for whatever comes next in his journey. The time is nigh, but Poirier’s legacy will live on forever. Thank you, Diamond, for all the memories.
