News Summary
New Orleans will welcome UFC 318, marking the organization’s return to Louisiana for the first time in nearly a decade. The event will feature local fighter Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight against Max Holloway for the BMF Championship. This will be their third encounter, following Poirier’s two previous victories. The event brings emotional significance for Poirier and his fans as it showcases his impressive career and contributions to the community, alongside an exciting co-main event and various undercard matches.
New Orleans to Host UFC 318 Featuring Dustin Poirier’s Retirement Fight
New Orleans will welcome the UFC back on July 19 with UFC 318, marking the organization’s return to Louisiana for the first time in nearly a decade. The main event will showcase local hero Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier as he takes on Max “Blessed” Holloway for the prestigious BMF (Baddest Mother F—er) Championship. This highly anticipated bout is notable not only for the fighters involved but also because it will be Poirier’s final fight before retirement.
Poirier vs. Holloway: The Rivalry Continues
This matchup will be the third encounter between Poirier and Holloway, with Poirier having triumphed in both previous clashes. Their first meeting was in 2012 during Holloway’s UFC debut, where Poirier handed him his first professional loss. The two fighters faced off again in 2019 at UFC 236, where Poirier emerged victorious by unanimous decision, securing the interim lightweight title in the process.
Event Details
UFC 318 will take place at the Smoothie King Center, located at 1501 Dave Dixon Dr, New Orleans, LA 70113. Doors for the event will open at 4 p.m., with early prelims commencing at 5 p.m., prelims at 7 p.m., and the main card set to begin at 9 p.m. Tickets are currently available for purchase, including options for VIP packages. Please note that the venue will operate as a cashless facility, with all merchandise and concessions available only through card transactions.
Emotional Significance of Poirier’s Farewell
Poirier has expressed immense pride in returning to his home state for his last professional fight. The event is expected to be emotional due to its significance, not just for Poirier, but for his fans and the local community that has supported him throughout his career. Leading up to the fight, Poirier has adjusted his training regimen to ensure he performs at his best, both physically and mentally, in his farewell bout.
Legacy and Philanthropy
Throughout his career, Poirier has built an impressive record and has been part of memorable matchups against other well-known fighters, including Conor McGregor and Justin Gaethje. Beyond his achievements in the octagon, he is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts through the Good Fight Foundation, which aims to make a positive impact on communities in need.
Co-Main Event and Additional Matches
UFC 318 will also feature an exciting co-main event with a middleweight bout between Paulo Costa and Roman Kopylov. The match card promises to deliver high-energy fights, catering to the diverse interests of MMA fans. With the event taking place in a city rich in cultural heritage and sporting history, UFC 318 is set to attract spectators from across the country.
Looking Ahead
As Poirier approaches his retirement, he is contemplating life after fighting, including possibilities for community work and remaining involved in mixed martial arts in a different capacity. The combination of his final fight and the festive atmosphere surrounding UFC 318 is anticipated to create a memorable experience for everyone involved.
This historic event not only signifies a personal milestone for Poirier but also reflects the vibrant and resilient spirit of New Orleans as it welcomes UFC back for an unforgettable night of fights.
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Additional Resources
- UFC News: Last Time New Orleans UFC 318
- WWLTV: When is UFC 318 in New Orleans?
- KATC: Dustin Poirier Talks Preparing for UFC 318
- NewOrleans.com: Trip Guide to UFC 318
- WWLTV: Will President Trump Attend UFC 318?
- Wikipedia: UFC 318
- Google Search: UFC 318
- Google Scholar: UFC 318
- Encyclopedia Britannica: UFC
- Google News: UFC 318
