Max Holloway finally settled the score with Dustin Poirier at UFC 318, winning their trilogy bout by unanimous decision after five hard-fought rounds. It was the third time these two fan favorites met in the Octagon, and just like their previous battles, this one delivered nonstop action.
Coming into the fight, Poirier held two wins over Holloway — one by submission in 2012 and a unanimous decision in 2019. But this time, Holloway turned the tables with a relentless performance that showcased his signature volume striking and improved power. He managed to drop Poirier twice during the fight — once in the second round with a sharp right hand and again in the fourth after a flurry of strikes.
Poirier didn’t back down. The veteran landed heavy shots of his own and even dropped Holloway once in the third round, proving he was still dangerous until the final bell. The fight was an all-out brawl, with both men trading shots at a furious pace. Neither fighter took a step back, making it one of the most entertaining bouts of the year.
MAX HOLLOWAY POINTS TO THE GROUND AND STANDS AND BANGS WITH DUSTIN POIRIER TO END THE FIGHT
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) July 20, 2025
LEGENDARY! #UFC318pic.twitter.com/rwzQbh4VD9
In the end, the judges scored the fight clearly for Holloway. His knockdowns, cleaner combinations, and constant forward pressure earned him the unanimous decision and a much-deserved win in the trilogy.

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With this victory, Holloway closes a major chapter in his career and reclaims bragging rights in one of MMA’s most intense rivalries. For Poirier, the loss marks the end of an incredible run, as he hinted that this may have been his final fight. No matter what comes next, both fighters left everything in the cage — and gave fans a war to remember.
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