As UFC 318 descends upon New Orleans, Louisiana, fight fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying night of mixed martial arts. The marquee event of the evening is the much-anticipated trilogy bout between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier, set to battle for the coveted BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title. Scheduled for Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center, this event marks a significant chapter in both fighters' careers and the UFC's storied history.
The rivalry between Holloway and Poirier is one steeped in history and mutual respect. This trilogy fight is their third encounter inside the Octagon, with Poirier having bested Holloway twice before. Their first meeting dates back to UFC 143 in 2012, where Poirier secured a first-round submission victory. The second clash came seven years later at UFC 236 in 2019, where Poirier once again emerged victorious, this time via decision. Now, Holloway looks to even the score and defend his BMF title in front of a passionate New Orleans crowd, where Poirier, a Louisiana native, is making what might be his final walk to the Octagon.
Friday's official weigh-ins set the tone for the night, with all fighters on the main card successfully making weight, a crucial factor that often foreshadows the intensity and fairness of the bouts. Holloway tipped the scales at a perfect 155 pounds, the lightweight limit, while Poirier came in just a pound heavier at 156. Their close weights underline the evenly matched nature of this fight and add to the intrigue surrounding their trilogy.
In the co-main event, middleweights Paulo Costa and Roman Kopylov also made weight at 185 pounds, promising a clash of striking titans. Costa returns to the Octagon after a lengthy hiatus, eager to make a statement against the dangerous Kopylov. Both fighters are known for their explosive styles, making this a must-watch bout for fans craving high-octane action.
The rest of the main card boasts a formidable lineup. Welterweights Kevin Holland and Daniel Rodriguez both weighed in at 170 pounds, setting the stage for a competitive showdown. Featherweights Dan Ige and Patricio "Pitbull" Freire hit the featherweight limit at 145 pounds, while lightweights Michael Johnson and Daniel Zellhuber weighed in at 155 and 156 pounds, respectively. Each of these fighters brings their own unique skills and stories, contributing to a stacked card that UFC aficionados will appreciate.
Preliminary and early preliminary bouts featured a similarly impressive roster, with fighters across multiple weight classes making weight and ready to compete. Notables include Kyler Phillips versus Vinicius Oliveira at bantamweight, middleweights Marvin Vettori and Brendan Allen in a top-15 clash, and light heavyweight contenders Jimmy Crute and Marcin Prachnio. The depth of talent on this card ensures that the excitement will extend well beyond the main event.
Beyond the physical preparations, the rivalry between Holloway and Poirier carries compelling narrative threads. Both fighters share remarkably parallel UFC careers, each boasting 22 wins inside the promotion, with 11 of those victories coming by knockout or technical knockout. They have each ended double-digit win streaks, faced six common opponents, and competed in two weight divisions. Their paths have crossed in battles for interim, undisputed, and BMF titles, highlighting their status as elite competitors in the lightweight division.
Fans and analysts alike have noted the striking similarities in their careers, making this trilogy bout not just a fight for a title but a clash of two of the sport’s most accomplished and resilient athletes. Poirier’s ties to Louisiana add an emotional layer to the event, as he fights in front of a hometown crowd for what could be his final UFC appearance.
The weigh-in ceremonies, which began at 10 a.m. ET with the official weigh-ins and were followed by a ceremonial event at 6 p.m. ET, showcased the professionalism and dedication of all fighters involved. UFC officials confirmed that no fighters missed weight, a relief for fans and promoters who know how a missed weight can derail fight plans and disappoint audiences.
As the clock ticks down to the main card’s 10 p.m. ET start on ESPN+ pay-per-view, the energy surrounding UFC 318 is palpable. Whether it’s the high stakes of the BMF title fight, the return of Paulo Costa, or the stacked undercard featuring top contenders and rising stars, there’s something for every MMA enthusiast.
UFC 318 is more than just a fight night; it’s a celebration of mixed martial arts at its finest. With the stage set at the Smoothie King Center and a city known for its vibrant culture and passionate sports fans, this event is poised to deliver unforgettable moments. As Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier prepare to write the next chapter in their storied rivalry, the MMA world watches with bated breath.
Regardless of the outcome, UFC 318 promises to be a defining moment in the careers of those involved and a highlight in the 2025 UFC calendar. Fans can expect a night full of drama, skill, and heart, epitomizing why the sport continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
