Holloway stuns Poirier’s UFC farewell with decision win

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Max Holloway played spoiler after defeating Dustin Poirier during his retirement fight in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) on July 20, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.

With the decisive victory, Holloway defended his UFC “BMF” championship belt and finally got back at Poirier who won their first two showdowns in 2012 and in 2019.

Holloway didn’t play games and quit dishing out the antics during their trilogy clash. The BMF king immediately punished Poirier in the stand-up exchanges, scoring in a variety of ways including quick left hooks that battered the home crowd favorite.

Just when Holloway thought that he was already dictating the pace of the fight, Poirier once again brought out a little bit of magic after sending him to the canvas with a quick straight punch.

Fans then roared and jumped in excitement when their hometown hero surprisingly jumped at Holloway and attempted a guillotine choke submission move.

Although the plan worked out well in the first seconds, Holloway managed to sprawl out of danger and used his waist to turn sideways which unlocked Poirier’s dominant position.

That guillotine choke became Poirier’s last golden moment in the fight as Holloway dominated the next rounds with his insane boxing skills.

Known to be a brawler and an entertaining fighter who likes to accept challenges, Poirier agreed to meet with Holloway in the center of the octagon and both had a gentleman’s nod to bring all that they had in the final 20 seconds of the last round.

After the friendly glove tap, both MMA stars engaged in an all-out war, throwing wild haymakers at each other but it was Holloway who was able to connect more, including the match-sealing three-punch combination that landed to Poirier’s midsection.

All three official judges scored the bout in favor of Holloway, 48-47, 49-46, 49-46, improving his record to 27 wins, 14 knockouts, and eight losses.

On the other hand, Poirier, who has fought his final match in the UFC after confirming his retirement prior to the bout, will end his legendary career with 30 wins, 22 knockouts, and 10 losses.

“I feel loved by the fans, Louisiana and the company. It’s been incredible. I didn’t know I touched as many people as I did just by chasing my dreams,” said Poirier after the match.