Dustin Poirier concluded his illustrious mixed martial arts career at UFC 318, doing so on his own terms. While he did not emerge victorious in his final octagon appearance, the overwhelming support from the sold-out Smoothie King Center in New Orleans enveloped “The Diamond” following a captivating five-round battle against long-time rival Max Holloway.
In the third encounter between the two elite fighters, Holloway secured his first win in their series. Despite the outcome, both competitors received roaring applause during and after Saturday night’s highly anticipated main event, underscoring the mutual respect and excitement generated by their contest.
The dominant theme across social media responses was undoubtedly Poirier’s retirement. Numerous prominent figures and standout athletes from the MMA community offered heartfelt tributes to the retiring star. Since his debut on the UFC roster in 2011, Poirier stepped into the octagon 32 times, crafting a highlight reel filled with unforgettable moments. His achievements include an impressive collection of 10 `Fight of the Night` bonuses (with another potentially pending), an interim lightweight championship, and victories over many of his era`s most decorated fighters.
Farewell messages poured in from various high-profile fighters, including Islam Makhachev, Jon Jones, Conor McGregor, Belal Muhammad, and Jorge Masvidal. However, perhaps the most succinct summary of Poirier’s enduring legacy came from UFC welterweight Themba Gorimbo, who simply tweeted: “Diamonds are forever.”
Other Notable Reactions:
Legend. Diamonds are forever. ❤️ #champion
Congratulations on an amazing career Dustin, thank you for the years of entertainment. Now go enjoy your retirement.
Paid in full. Dustin is a legend, amazing career.
What a fight! I hate to see you go Dustin.
Congratulations, Dustin. You’re truly one of the greatest to ever step into the cage. It was an honor and a privilege to share it with you.
Congrats on an awesome career Dustin! It’s been great sharing this journey with you. Thanks for all the good times and everything you brought to the team. Enjoy retirement you’ve more than earned it.
We love a good scrapper in the company and them two boys are just that! Scrappers! Awesome stuff! Great fight lads, bravo!
Man, Dustin Poirier is ALL CLASS! Love that dude! #UFC318
What. A. Fight!!! Max Holloway is a f***ing problem at 155 and mannn.. what a career from Dustin Poirier – in tears during that walk out #UFC318
Wow! Absolute legends both of them.
Who cares who won that, really.
Dope way to finish a fight and a career for Poirier, Holloway will continue on! Bravo fellas.
What a great fight!! Happy retirement @DustinPoirier #UFC318
I`m not crying, you are #ufc
First ballot Hall of fame!!! @DustinPoirier. It was an honor to share the octagon with you.
Thank you @dustinpoirier. MMA Rollercoaster with you has been a fun ride. Thank You.
Still mine.
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