The mixed martial arts world is buzzing ahead of UFC 318, where two legendary fighters, Max holloway and Dustin poirier, are set for a highly anticipated trilogy bout. Scheduled for July 19 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, this main event clash for the symbolic BMF title carries significant weight, amplified by the widespread belief that it could be Poirier’s final fight. As anticipation builds, Holloway has made a surprising request to the Ultimate Fighting Championship regarding his status within the organization’s rankings.
A Trilogy Years in the Making at UFC 318
The third meeting between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier adds another chapter to a storied rivalry that began over a decade ago. Poirier holds a dominant 2-0 lead in the series, securing a win in Holloway’s UFC debut back in 2012 and later claiming an interim lightweight title victory over “Blessed” in 2019. The upcoming UFC 318 showdown sees them compete at 155 pounds once again.
Adding narrative depth, this fight is heavily framed around Dustin Poirier’s potential retirement. UFC President Dana White has publicly hailed Poirier as an “all-time great,” underscoring his impact on the sport and the significance of this possible farewell event. Poirier himself has even teased an epic walkout, hinting that rap icon Lil Wayne might accompany him to the cage. However, the booking wasn’t Poirier’s initial preference; reports indicate he first requested a rubber match against Justin Gaethje, with whom he holds a 1-1 record, stating he wanted to “close out that trilogy.” The UFC, however, “really wanted this fight with Max,” blindsiding Poirier with the matchup request despite his respect for Holloway.
Holloway’s Unexpected Ranking Revelation
Amidst the build-up for this pivotal lightweight battle, former featherweight champion Max Holloway has turned heads with an unusual request directed at UFC officials. Despite his established presence at 155 pounds, Holloway remains surprisingly ranked as the number one contender in the featherweight division (145 pounds).
Holloway is now asking the promotion to remove him from the featherweight rankings entirely. He stated plainly that his move to lightweight is permanent and he has no intention of returning to 145 pounds. Speaking to MMAJunkie, Holloway called his continued ranking at number one “kind of ridiculous.” He elaborated on the physical benefits of competing at the higher weight class, citing improved recovery from tough training sessions thanks to better nutrition and increased protein intake. He finds this significantly better than the constant struggle of cutting down to 145 pounds, which felt like simply “toughing it out.” Holloway’s last appearance at featherweight was a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 308, marking the first time he had ever been finished in his career. This definitive loss at the lower weight may further cement his resolve to stay at 155 pounds.
Broader Critique of UFC Rankings
Holloway’s commentary didn’t stop at his own ranking; he also voiced broader frustration with the overall consistency and logic of the UFC’s ranking system. He described the rankings as being “all over the place.”
To illustrate his point, Holloway referenced his previous lightweight fight against Justin Gaethje. He noted that Gaethje was ranked number one at lightweight when they fought, yet Holloway himself was ranked number nine after that bout, which he found illogical given the circumstances. Holloway believes the rankings committee shows inconsistency, stating, “The rankings care but I don’t get it.” This public questioning of the system adds another layer to his specific request for featherweight removal.
Avoiding Undesired History
The UFC 318 clash with Dustin Poirier represents Max Holloway’s second trilogy in the UFC, following his high-profile series against Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight title. Unfortunately for Holloway, he lost all three fights against “The Great,” finishing that trilogy with an 0-3 record.
Aware of this history, “Blessed” is determined to change the narrative in his trilogy against Poirier. He explicitly stated that while “Making history is great,” he has no desire to “be the man who fought two trilogies and went 0-3.” This goal adds significant personal stakes to the BMF title fight. The physical demands of combat, especially at the highest level, are immense, leading some fighters’ families, like Alexander Volkanovski’s, to encourage retirement even after title wins, underscoring the toll fighting takes and potentially validating Holloway’s decision to move up in weight for better health and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Max Holloway ask to be removed from the featherweight rankings?
Max Holloway requested removal from the UFC featherweight rankings because he considers his move to the lightweight division (155 pounds) permanent. He stated he is no longer returning to 145 pounds and finds his current number one ranking in that division “ridiculous.” Holloway prefers fighting at lightweight, citing better recovery and nutrition benefits that are superior to “toughing it out” at featherweight.
Where and when is the Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier trilogy fight happening?
The trilogy fight between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier is scheduled to take place on July 19. It will headline the UFC 318 event and will be held at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The fight is contested for the symbolic BMF title.
What is Max Holloway’s history with trilogy fights?
The upcoming bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 is Max Holloway’s second trilogy in the UFC. His first trilogy was against Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight championship, where Holloway unfortunately lost all three fights, resulting in an 0-3 record in that series. He aims to avoid repeating this outcome against Poirier.
Conclusion
Max Holloway’s surprising request to exit the featherweight rankings is a clear signal of his future intentions, solidifying his commitment to the lightweight division. As he prepares for a monumental trilogy clash against Dustin Poirier at UFC 318, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Not only is the BMF title on the line, but Holloway also seeks to avenge past losses and rewrite his history with trilogies. His candid remarks about the rankings also shine a light on an often-discussed topic within the sport. All eyes will be on New Orleans on July 19 to see how this pivotal lightweight showdown unfolds and what the future holds for “Blessed.”
