New Orleans, Louisiana – The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) storms back to the Smoothie King Center for UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3 on Saturday, July 19, 2025, marking its first New Orleans event since 2015. This blockbuster pay-per-view headlines with Louisiana’s own Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier in his final UFC fight, battling Max Holloway for the “BMF” (Baddest Motherfucker) title in their third career matchup. Here’s your complete guide to UFC 318, including the latest news, full fight card, expert predictions, and how to watch live.

Main Event: Holloway vs. Poirier 3 – A Historic Trilogy

The main event pits former UFC Featherweight Champion Max Holloway against former interim Lightweight Champion Dustin Poirier in a lightweight showdown for the “BMF” belt. Poirier, who defeated Holloway at UFC 143 (2012) and UFC 236 (2019), aims to close his 14-year UFC career with a victory in his home state. Holloway, fresh off a knockout win over Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 to claim the “BMF” title, looks to derail Poirier’s farewell and cement his lightweight legacy after a recent featherweight title loss to Ilia Topuria.

Expect a striking masterclass, with Holloway’s relentless pace (7.3 significant strikes per minute) clashing against Poirier’s pinpoint accuracy and knockout power. The emotional stakes of Poirier’s retirement make this a can’t-miss fight.

Co-Main Event: Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov

The co-main event features middleweight sluggers Paulo Costa and No. 14-ranked Roman Kopylov. Costa, desperate to rebound from a 1-3 skid since his 2020 title fight loss, faces a streaking Kopylov, who boasts six wins in his last seven fights. This high-octane striking battle could end in a highlight-reel knockout.

Must-Watch Fights on the Card

UFC 318 delivers a stacked lineup of veterans and prospects:

• Kevin Holland vs. Daniel Rodriguez (Welterweight): A long-delayed striking showdown finally takes place, promising fireworks.
• Dan Ige vs. Patricio Pitbull (Featherweight): Pitbull seeks his first UFC win, while Ige aims to crack the top 10.
• Michael Johnson vs. Daniel Zellhuber (Lightweight): A veteran vs. prospect clash with major ranking implications.
• Kyler Phillips vs. Vinicius Oliveira (Bantamweight): Rising star Oliveira looks to build on his February 2025 victory.
• Brendan Allen vs. Marvin Vettori (Middleweight): A heated rivalry culminates in a pivotal middleweight bout.
• Ateba Gautier vs. Robert Valentin (Middleweight): Two prospects vie for a breakout moment.
• Islam Dulatov vs. Adam Fugitt (Welterweight): Top prospect Dulatov returns from injury to face a tough test.
• Jimmy Crute vs. Marcin Prachnio (Light Heavyweight): A rescheduled clash with both fighters hungry for a win.

Latest UFC 318 Updates

• Weigh-Ins Complete: Holloway and Poirier both hit the lightweight limit, locking in the main event.
• Lil Wayne Appearance: The New Orleans rap icon will present the “BMF” title to the winner, adding star power to Poirier’s final fight.
• Joe Rogan Misses Event: Fans were surprised to learn Rogan won’t be commentating Poirier’s retirement bout.
• Fight Cancellation: A welterweight bout between Neil Magny and Gunnar Nelson was scrapped due to Nelson’s injury; Magny is rebooked for a future card.
• Press Conference Buzz: Holloway and Poirier kept it respectful but intense, while Dana White defended the UFC’s decision to scale back recent press events.

Predictions and Betting Insights

• Holloway vs. Poirier: Holloway enters as a slight favorite due to his recent lightweight success, but Poirier’s home-state energy and boxing precision make him a dangerous underdog. Experts lean toward a close decision for Holloway.
• Costa vs. Kopylov: Costa’s power gives him the edge, but Kopylov’s momentum could lead to an upset knockout.
• Holland vs. Rodriguez: Holland’s reach and versatility likely secure him a decision win in a fan-friendly scrap.

How to Watch UFC 318

• Date: Saturday, July 19, 2025
• Venue: Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Main Card Start Time: 10:00 PM ET (7:00 PM PT)
• Broadcast/Streaming: ESPN+ PPV (main card), ESPN/ESPN+ (prelims). International viewers should check local providers.
• Cost: Available via ESPN+ subscription; PPV pricing varies by region.

Why UFC 318 Is a Must-See

UFC 318 is a landmark event, celebrating Dustin Poirier’s incredible career while showcasing the future of the lightweight and middleweight divisions. With Holloway chasing history, prospects like Dulatov and Oliveira rising, and local hero Poirier aiming for a storybook ending, this card is packed with drama and stakes.

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