Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway 3 is going to be a main event at UFC 318. This is the last fight of Dustin Poirier as he announces his retirement from MMA. For UFC 318 predictions, we are choosing Dustin Poirier because of some facts that we are going to discuss in this article.
Dustin Poirier got the edge as he defeated Max Holloway 2 times before. Here is the complete breakdown for Dustin Poirier vs. Max Holloway 3, as shown in the table below.
UFC 318 Predictions: Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway 3
| Attribute | Dustin Poirier | Max Holloway | Prediction Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Striking | Elite boxing with sharp, powerful punches. Known for heavy hands and precision. | High-volume striker with crisp combinations and relentless pace. | Poirier (Power) |
| Grappling | Strong Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) with submission skills (e.g., triangle armbar). | Improved grappling defense but less offensive grappling threat. | Poirier |
| Cardio | Proven durability, absorbs damage well, but has been rocked (e.g., Gaethje KO). | Proven durability, absorbs damage well,l but has been rocked (e.g., Gaethje KO). | Holloway |
| Chin/Durability | Coming off a submission loss to Makhachev, I’m motivated for retirement fight. | Historically durable, first KO loss to Topuria in 2024. | Holloway (Slight) |
| Fight IQ | Tactical counterpuncher, adapts well to opponents’ styles. | High fight IQ, excels at adjusting mid-fight and controlling range. | Even |
| Experience | 39 pro fights, 2-0 vs. Holloway, faced top-tier lightweights (e.g., Makhachev). | 34 pro fights, former featherweight champ, iconic BMF KO vs. Gaethje. | Poirier (Slight) |
| Momentum | Exceptional cardio increases output as fights progress. | Off first KO loss to Topuria, moving back to lightweight. | Poirier (Motivation) |
| Home Advantage | Fighting in New Orleans, strong crowd support. | No home advantage, but experienced in high-pressure environments. | Poirier |
| Overall Prediction | Poirier’s power and grappling edge could lead to a submission or decision win. | Holloway’s volume and cardio could steal rounds late for a decision. | Poirier (55-45) |
Conclusion
- Poirier’s 2-0 record against Holloway (2012 submission, 2019 decision) gives him a psychological edge.
- Holloway’s recent KO loss to Topuria raises questions about his chin at 155 lbs.
- Poirier’s home crowd and retirement narrative may boost his performance.
- Holloway’s volume, a striking and improved lightweight frame, could make this competitive.