The countdown to UFC 318 in Louisiana is officially underway, with Max Holloway, the current `BMF` titleholder, arriving in the Pelican State ahead of his highly anticipated main event clash.
Set to face Dustin Poirier on July 19th, this bout marks a significant moment for both fighters: a trilogy contest for the symbolic `BMF` belt and Holloway`s first Octagon appearance since his decisive knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 308.
While the immediate focus is the formidable challenge posed by Poirier, Holloway`s sights extend beyond the `BMF` hardware. He has openly cited the personal imperative of avoiding another trilogy loss – a rare setback he suffered against Alexander Volkanovski – as a key motivator. Furthermore, the recent lightweight title victory by Ilia Topuria adds a compelling layer, positioning a potential future rematch against `El Matador` for the 155-pound championship as a major aspiration should Holloway emerge victorious.
Arrival in Louisiana: A Journey with “Little Scares”
Holloway`s journey to the fight destination was not without its minor complications. Documenting his travel on his YouTube channel, `Blessed` recounted some “little scares” encountered en route to Louisiana.
These logistical challenges included extended layovers and flights being temporarily grounded due to thunderstorms, common travel frustrations that precede even the most significant combat sports events. “We`re all good now, we`re here, we checked in,” Holloway confirmed upon arrival, signaling that the team had successfully navigated the initial hurdles and were settling into their fight week environment.
Notably, Holloway mentioned arriving early, a strategic move perhaps, and his plan to sample local cuisine, facilitated by his current 155-pound status. This suggests a focused, yet not overly restricted, approach to his final preparations in the new weight class.
The Poirier Narrative: A Hometown Farewell?
Adding another layer of significance to this main event is the widely discussed context of it potentially being Dustin Poirier`s final professional fight. The narrative surrounding `The Diamond` stepping into the Octagon in front of his home crowd in Louisiana for what could be the last time infuses the event with profound emotional weight.
UFC President Dana White himself framed the event around Poirier`s status as an `all-time great,` scheduling the card as a tribute in his home state – a gesture that underscores the respect Poirier has earned within the sport.
An Unexpected Striking Analysis
In a moment of technical reflection during the lead-up, Holloway offered an interesting comparison regarding striking power, providing insight into his experience against past opponents. Despite suffering a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria – his first via strikes – Holloway surprisingly named Justin Gaethje as the hardest hitter he has faced in his career.
Holloway explained his reasoning: he felt the concussive impact of Gaethje`s shots more profoundly than those from Topuria, suggesting a difference in the type or accumulation of force absorbed, even if one resulted in a finish and the other did not. This technical observation from one of the sport`s most experienced strikers offers a fascinating, perhaps slightly ironic, perspective on the nuances of punching power at the elite level.
As Max Holloway settles into Louisiana, shaking off the travel weariness, the stage is set for a compelling clash steeped in multiple narratives: a BMF title defense, a crucial trilogy bout, the potential final act of a legend`s career in his hometown, and Holloway`s clear view on future championship pursuits. All eyes will be on the Octagon on July 19th to see how these converging storylines unfold.
Percy Harlow