The octagon awaits a moment of profound transition. As UFC 318 approaches, all eyes turn to Dustin Poirier, “The Diamond,” who is set to make his final walk to the cage against Max Holloway for the `BMF` title. This event, strategically hosted in New Orleans as a tribute to Poirier, marks not just the end of a decorated fighting career but the beginning of a new chapter, laden with emotion, surprising humor, and thoughtful future plans.
The Bittersweet Farewell
Poirier`s journey has been defined by grit, heart, and an unyielding pursuit of greatness. Yet, as he prepares for his swansong, the sentiment is far from simple jubilation. He admits to a genuine fear of this impending finality. For a man who has spent more of his life in the combat sports arena than out of it, the thought of stepping away is daunting. “It`s bittersweet,” he confessed, acknowledging the internal struggle of leaving behind a career that has yielded significant financial rewards and countless memorable battles.
His decision is not born from a decline in ability; Poirier believes he can still compete with the best, even against current champions like Islam Makhachev. Instead, it stems from a deeper introspection. Having contended for the world title three times, the arduous path to another championship shot feels less appealing than the prospect of a different life. He mused, “Am I going to be the world champion? To get another title shot? I’ve had three,” articulating the exhaustion that comes with that relentless pursuit. He also shared a profound personal motivation: becoming a father again and exploring opportunities beyond the fight game. The idea of fighting “just for a paycheck,” without the ultimate championship goal, is antithetical to the spirit of “The Diamond.”
A Jacked and Tan Future? The Post-USADA Jest
Amidst the profound discussions of legacy and personal fulfillment, Poirier injected a characteristic dose of fighter humor that quickly garnered attention. Post-retirement, when the rigorous scrutiny of USADA (the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency) is no longer a factor, Poirier jokingly declared his intentions to get “jacked and tan” – implying a lighthearted foray into performance-enhancing substances. “This will be the last time I’m ever 155 pounds in my life,” he quipped, adding:
“I’m getting on steroids. Once USADA stops knocking on my door, and I lay the gloves down, I’m getting jacked and tan.”
This lighthearted, albeit potentially provocative, remark echoes similar jokes made by other fighters, notably Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, who openly embraced a more robust physique post-competition. It`s a candid, if tongue-in-cheek, acknowledgment of the physical toll and the extreme discipline required to compete at the highest level of mixed martial arts, especially under strict anti-doping protocols. While clearly a jest, it provides a fascinating, almost ironic, glimpse into the mindset of athletes constantly pushed to their physical limits.
Beyond the Octagon: A Voice for the Sport
While the competitive chapter closes, Poirier`s connection to MMA is far from over. A self-proclaimed “huge fan” of the sport, he diligently follows fights across all organizations. His retirement plans are less about escaping the sport and more about transitioning into a new role within it. He envisions himself staying connected, potentially through commentary roles with networks like ESPN, leveraging his vast experience and articulate insights.
More than just a commentator, Poirier expresses a deep desire to give back. He has no plans to open his own gym, citing a lack of personal passion for that particular venture. However, he remains committed to helping aspiring fighters. His intention to return to American Top Team (ATT) to assist training partners and mentor local Louisiana fighters underscores his belief in fighting as a “vehicle” for personal transformation. Having used the sport to navigate his own path from humble beginnings, he aims to guide others through the “unknown” journey of combat sports, understanding its profound potential for growth, regardless of competitive outcomes.
The Diamond`s Enduring Shine
As Dustin Poirier prepares for his final sanctioned bout, it`s clear that his legacy extends far beyond wins and losses. He embodies the complex reality of elite athletes: the relentless drive, the profound sacrifices, and the emotional complexities of stepping away. His candid reflections, combined with his playful remarks about a “jacked” future and his sincere commitment to the sport`s next generation, paint a portrait of a fighter who is as human as he is legendary. UFC 318 will not just be a fight; it will be a poignant milestone, marking the closing of one brilliant chapter and the exciting anticipation of another, equally impactful, one.
