As 2025 begins, UFC fans and analysts are shifting their focus to the future, leaving behind the success stories of 2024. Events like UFC 311 are already on the horizon, along with potential matchups at UFC 312 and 313. But what’s sparking the most interest? The possibility of a third showdown between Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway is gaining serious momentum.

This speculation has grown even stronger with Daniel Cormier discussing Poirier’s return and probable swansong. ‘The Diamond’ suffered a heartbreak loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 302, and has already confirmed he won’t retire. Poirier’s three submission losses to lightweight champions—Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2019, Charles Oliveira in 2021, and most recently, Makhachev—have led him to reassess his goals. While his dreams of a title may be behind him, Poirier is still eager to compete and leave a lasting mark on the division.

Cormier recently weighed in on Poirier’s situation, asking whether the veteran has a responsibility to face rising contenders in the division. “I didn’t believe he was going to retire. He has got way too much fight left in him. I’m happy that he has decided to continue, but now it raises the question does he owe responsibility to the division to fight a young guy? A Rafael Fiziev? A Gamrat? A Moicano; said he doesn’t wanna fight him because he gives him problems with training but does he owe that responsibility or do we see him in a fight with one of those names?”

Apart from some young and upcoming fighters, there is also a buzz about a third bout against Max Holloway. But will this ever go down? Poirier’s storied career has seen him face the best at 145lbs and 155lbs. And a BMF title fight between two veterans of the sport may prove to be the ultimate swansong for one of the most exciting fighters to ever step inside the Octagon. 

Will we get to witness a third fight between Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway?

MMA Sound recently sparked excitement in the MMA community by announcing the rumor of a trilogy fight between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier at UFC 313. Shortly after, MMA Sapiens fueled the buzz by sharing the same news on Instagram with a caption that read, “Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway is rumored to be in the works for UFC 313! That’s a huge fight!”

While there hasn’t been any official confirmation about UFC 313, multiple sources suggest the event is scheduled for March 8. However, the possibility of Poirier vs. Holloway 3 has fans buzzing with excitement. This matchup feels especially meaningful, given both fighters are looking to bounce back after recent setbacks.

The pair share a compelling history, having met twice before in the Octagon. Their first encounter at UFC 143 saw Poirier claim victory via submission. Years later, at UFC 236, they faced off for the interim lightweight title, with Poirier earning a hard-fought unanimous decision win. A third showdown would not only reignite their storied rivalry but also provide an electrifying spectacle for fans as both fighters approach the twilight of their primes.

This potential trilogy could carry immense significance for both men’s legacies and offer fans one of the most exciting matchups of the year. What are your thoughts on this rumored fight? Would you like to see Poirier and Holloway clash one more time? Share your opinions in the comments below!