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Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier
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Dustin Glenn Poirier (born January 19, 1989) is an American former professional mixed martial artist. He competed in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he is a former Interim UFC Lightweight Champion. He is considered one of the greatest Lightweights of all time.[7][8][9][10][11] Poirier also challenged three times for the UFC Lightweight Championship and twice for the BMF title.

Key Information

Early life and education

[edit]

Poirier was born in Lafayette, Louisiana, and is of Cajun heritage.[12] He attended Northside High School for a short time, but he dropped out in the ninth grade because of repeatedly getting into trouble and street fights.[13]

Mixed martial arts career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

Poirier turned professional in 2009, quickly compiled a record of 7–0, competing mostly in regional promotions across his native Louisiana and the Southern United States. Glimpses of Poirier's early MMA career in Louisiana are depicted in the documentary Fightville.[14]

World Extreme Cagefighting

[edit]

Poirier lost a unanimous decision to Danny Castillo in his WEC debut on August 18, 2010, at WEC 50.[15][16]

Poirier defeated Zach Micklewright via first-round TKO on November 11, 2010, at WEC 52.[17][18]

Ultimate Fighting Championship

[edit]

2010

[edit]

In October 2010, World Extreme Cagefighting merged with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. As part of the merger, all WEC fighters were transferred to the UFC.[19]

After the UFC/WEC merger, newly crowned UFC Featherweight Champion José Aldo was set to make his first defense against No. 1 contender Josh Grispi at UFC 125. Aldo then had to withdraw from the bout due to a back injury on November 23, 2010. Poirier agreed to step in and face Grispi at the event on January 1, 2011.[20] Poirier won the fight by unanimous decision.[21]

2011

[edit]

Poirier was expected to face Rani Yahya on June 11, 2011, at UFC 131.[22] However, Yahya was forced from the bout with an injury, and he was replaced by promotional newcomer, Jason Young.[23] Poirier defeated Young via unanimous decision after three rounds.[24]

Poirier faced Pablo Garza on November 12, 2011, at UFC on Fox 1.[25] Poirier defeated Garza via second round D'arce choke.[26]

2012

[edit]

Poirier was expected to face Erik Koch on February 4, 2012, at UFC 143.[27] However, Koch pulled out of the bout, citing an injury, and he was replaced by Ricardo Lamas.[28] Then, just two weeks later, Lamas had to withdraw from the fight with an injury, leaving Poirier again without an opponent.[29] A week later, Max Holloway agreed to step in to fight Poirier.[30] Poirier defeated Holloway in the first round, with a triangle-armbar from the mount position, earning a Submission of the Night bonus.[31]

Poirier faced Chan Sung Jung on May 15, 2012, in the main event at UFC on Fuel TV: Korean Zombie vs. Poirier.[32] This was the first time Poirier has been put on the main event. Jung defeated Poirier via submission (D'arce Choke) in the fourth round.[33] The performance earned both participants Fight of the Night honors.[34] The bout was honored as Fight of the Year by several publications at the conclusion of 2012.[35]

Poirier defeated Jonathan Brookins on December 15, 2012, at The Ultimate Fighter 16 Finale via D'arce Choke.[36][37]

2013

[edit]

Poirier quickly returned to action, taking his second fight within 63 days as he stepped in as a replacement for an injured Dennis Siver.[38] Poirier faced Cub Swanson in the co-main event on February 16, 2013, at UFC on Fuel TV: Barão vs. McDonald. During the fight, both fighters landed punches which appeared to hurt the other. Poirier scored leg kicks and double leg takedowns. Swanson retaliated with head kicks and submission attempts.[39] Poirier lost the fight via unanimous decision (29–28, 30–27, 30–27).

Poirier faced Erik Koch on August 31, 2013, at UFC 164.[40] Poirier hurt Koch with punches throughout the fight, knocking him down with a punch near the end of round 1 and nearly finishing the fight. He won the bout by unanimous decision.[41] After the win, Poirier wanted a rematch with Cub Swanson. He told reporter Ariel Helwani that Swanson must "be a man".

Poirier faced Diego Brandão on December 28, 2013, at UFC 168.[42] He won the fight via knockout in the first round.[43]

2014

[edit]

Poirier faced Akira Corassani at The Ultimate Fighter Nations Finale on April 16, 2014.[44] He won the fight via TKO in the second round.[45] The win also earned Poirier his second Fight of the Night bonus award.[46]

Poirier faced Conor McGregor on September 27, 2014, at UFC 178.[47] He lost the fight by TKO in the first round. This was the first time Poirier was stopped by strikes. After the match, Poirier said: "I always saw it as a plus but the Conor McGregor fight was the turning point. I remember I was backstage getting ready to walk out and I saw him and he threw this smile and pointed at me. I don't know why but it really got to me, man. It really messed with my head."[48]

After the loss, Poirier transferred up a weight class to the Lightweight division. Poirier said that it was because weight cuts were distracting him from training. He also claimed that he would never go back to featherweight nor move up to welterweight. "This is the division (lightweight) I'm going to win the belt at," said Poirier in an interview.[49][50]

2015

[edit]

Poirier faced Carlos Diego Ferreira in a lightweight bout on April 4, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 63.[51] He won the fight via knockout in the first round.[52] The win also earned Poirier his first Performance of the Night bonus award and a disclosed pay of $118,000, the highest disclosed pay received by Poirier at the time.[53]

Poirier faced Yancy Medeiros on June 6, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 68.[54] He won the fight via TKO in the first round, after dropping Medeiros twice with punches.[55] The win also earned Poirier his second Performance of the Night bonus award.[56]

2016

[edit]

Poirier was expected to face Joseph Duffy on October 24, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 76.[57] However, Duffy pulled out of the fight on October 21, three days prior to the event, after sustaining a concussion during a sparring session.[58] In turn, the pairing was rescheduled and took place on January 2, 2016, at UFC 195.[59] Poirier won the fight by unanimous decision.[60] After the bout, Poirier was hospitalized for a broken nose. He had a lay off for six weeks due to the injury.[61]

Poirier next faced Bobby Green on June 4, 2016, at UFC 199.[62] He won the fight via knockout in the first round.[63] Poirier received a disclosed pay of $110,000, the second highest disclosed pay received by Poirier in his career at that point.[64]

Poirier faced Michael Johnson in his second main-event bout on September 17, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 94.[65] Poirier lost the fight via first-round knockout.[66]

2017

[edit]

Poirier challenged Jim Miller on February 11, 2017, at UFC 208.[67] Poirier punched Miller against the fence, which appeared to hurt Miller. In return, Miller repeatedly kicked Poirier's legs. Later on, Miller swept Poirier onto the mat and failed a kimura attempt. Poirier won the back-and-forth fight via majority decision.[68] The win also earned Poirier $50,000 and his third Fight of the Night bonus award.[69] Due to injuries sustained during the fight, Poirier was suspended indefinitely.[70]

After the suspension, Poirier fought Eddie Alvarez on May 13, 2017, at UFC 211.[71] Poirier rocked Alvarez in the second round but was subsequently dropped when Alvarez landed two illegal knee strikes while Poirier was against the fence. With the Texas commission not operating under the new unified rules, referee Herb Dean declared the fight a no contest, as he did not believe Alvarez knew Poirier was a grounded opponent at the time.

Poirier faced Anthony Pettis on November 11, 2017, at UFC Fight Night 120.[72] He won the fight via TKO after Pettis tapped out due to a broken rib when Poirier applied a body triangle in the third round.[73] This fight also won him the Fight of the Night bonus award.[74]

2018

[edit]

After the Pettis fight, Poirier signed a new contract with UFC although he had three fights remaining in his previous contract.[75] Poirier faced Justin Gaethje on April 14, 2018, at UFC on Fox 29. He won the fight via TKO in the fourth round.[76] This fight earned him the Fight of the Night bonus award.[77]

Poirier faced Eddie Alvarez in a rematch on July 28, 2018, in the main event at UFC on Fox 30.[78][79][80] He won the fight via TKO in the second round.[81] This win earned him the Performance of the Night award.[82]

On August 3, 2018, it was announced that Poirier had agreed to fight Nate Diaz on November 3, 2018, in Madison Square Garden. The bout was expected to be the co-headliner of UFC 230.[83] However, on October 10, 2018, it was announced that Poirier pulled out due to a hip injury and as a result the bout was cancelled.[84][85]

2019

[edit]

As a result of the Khabib Nurmagomedov incident at UFC 229, the then lightweight champion Nurmagomedov was unable to defend his undisputed title until late 2019 which led to an interim lightweight title fight.[86] For the Interim UFC Lightweight Championship, Poirier faced UFC Featherweight Champion Max Holloway on April 13, 2019, at UFC 236.[87] He won the back–and–forth fight by unanimous decision to earn the title and also break Holloway's thirteen fight win-streak.[88][89] This fight also earned him the Fight of the Night award, his fourth consecutive performance bonus.[90]

Poirier faced the undefeated and undisputed UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov on September 7, 2019, in a title unification bout at UFC 242.[91] He lost the bout via rear-naked choke submission in the third round.[92]

2020

[edit]

Poirier faced Dan Hooker on June 27, 2020, at UFC on ESPN: Poirier vs. Hooker.[93] He won the exciting back-and-forth fight by unanimous decision.[94] This fight earned him his seventh Fight of the Night award.[95] The bout was widely considered one of the greatest fights of the year and was a contender for multiple awards.[96]

2021

[edit]

As the first bout of his new contract, Poirier faced Conor McGregor in a rematch of their 2014 bout at UFC 257 on January 24, 2021.[97][98] He won the fight via technical knockout in the second round, becoming the first person to defeat McGregor by knockout in an MMA bout.[99] This win earned him the Performance of the Night award.[100]

Poirier faced McGregor for the third time on July 10, 2021, at UFC 264.[101] Poirier won the fight in round one via technical knockout after the ringside doctor stopped the bout due to McGregor suffering a broken tibia, rendering him unable to continue.[102]

Poirier faced Charles Oliveira for the UFC Lightweight Championship on December 11, 2021 at UFC 269.[103] He lost the fight via a standing rear-naked choke submission in the third round.[104]

2022

[edit]

Poirier faced Michael Chandler on November 12, 2022, at UFC 281.[105] He won the fight via a rear-naked choke submission in the third round.[106] This fight earned him the Fight of the Night award.[107]

2023

[edit]

Poirier faced Justin Gaethje in a rematch of their 2018 bout for symbolic UFC "BMF" belt on July 29, 2023 at UFC 291.[108] He lost the fight via head kick knockout in round two.[109]

2024

[edit]

Poirier faced Benoît Saint Denis in a 5 round co-main for UFC 299 on March 9, 2024.[110] He won the bout by knockout in the second round.[111] This fight earned him another Fight of the Night award.[112]

Poirier faced Islam Makhachev for the UFC Lightweight Championship at UFC 302 on June 1, 2024.[113] He lost the bout via a D'Arce choke in the fifth round.[114] This fight earned him another Fight of the Night award and a $50,000 bonus.[115][116]

2025

[edit]

In his retirement bout, Poirier faced former UFC Featherweight Champion Max Holloway in a trilogy bout for the symbolic UFC "BMF" belt on July 19, 2025, at UFC 318 in his home state of Louisiana.[117] He lost the fight by unanimous decision and retired after the bout.[118]

Training

[edit]

Poirier used to train at Gladiators Academy under retired MMA fighter Tim Credeur.[119] After his loss to Chan Sung Jung, Poirier moved to American Top Team.[120][92]

Fighting style

[edit]
Poirier stance.

Poirier holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu under Tim Credeur, but mostly finishes his opponents through his proficiency in the striking arts since the early days of his career in the UFC. His boxing skills are lauded, and he has showcased them in significant victories over elite-level strikers such as Justin Gaethje, Eddie Alvarez, Dan Hooker, Max Holloway, and Conor McGregor.[121] He is noted for his shifting punching style and extensive use of the shoulder roll as well as forearm and elbow blocks from the stonewall defense.[122]

Charity

[edit]
Petty Officer 3rd Class Christopher Mosley arm wrestles with Poirier aboard USS George Washington in 2011.

Poirier auctioned his UFC 211 kit on eBay to raise money for Second Harvest Food Bank. The highest bidder paid $5,100 for Poirier's shirt, gloves, cap, hand wraps and shorts.[123][124][125] In April 2018, Poirier and his wife founded the Good Fight Foundation. Poirier proceeded to auction his UFC Fight Night 120 and UFC on Fox 29 fight kits as well. The money raised went to the family of a deceased Lafayette police officer and the Acadiana Outreach Center, respectively.[126][127] Poirier also auctioned his UFC on Fox 30 fight kit and used the money raised to buy 500 backpacks for school children in his hometown of Lafayette.[128]

After his bout with Nurmagomedov at UFC 242, the two swapped shirts after the fight. In his post-fight interview, Nurmagomedov said that he would be selling the shirt Poirier gave him and donating the proceeds to Poirier's charity.[129] Likewise, Poirier announced that he would be auctioning off his UFC 242 fighting equipment to raise funds for the foundation.[130] After the event, Poirier auctioned his fight kit with Nurmagomedov's walkout shirt for $60,200.[131] Simultaneously, Nurmagomedov sold Poirier's walkout shirt for $100,000 which was matched by Dana White for a combined total of a $200,000 donation to Poirier's foundation. According to Poirier, his foundation is working with Justin Wren's Fight for the Forgotten to help provide clean drinking water to the Echuya Batwa people in Uganda.[132][133]

Poirier was set to face Garry Tonon in a grappling match at SubStars event on February 21, 2020, from which Poirier was supposed to be donating his ticket and PPV sales and part of his purse to his foundation.[134] However, Tonon suffered an injury a week before the match and the bout was canceled.[135]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Poirier's foundation donated 1,000 meals to the employees of three major hospitals in his native Lafayette area.[136]

On June 26, 2020, Poirier was awarded the Forrest Griffin Community Award by UFC for his charity work.[137]

In recognition of Poirier's charitable contributions, Lafayette Mayor-President Josh Guillory declared March 15, 2021 Dustin Poirier Day in Lafayette, Louisiana and awarded Poirier a key to the city.[138]

While still in the octagon immediately after his loss to Charles Oliveira, Poirier pledged twenty-thousand dollars ($20,000) to a charity of Oliveira's choosing in Oliveira's native Brazil, with the money eventually going to the Charles Oliveira Institute, which teaches martial arts for free to kids in Guaruja, Brazil.[139]

After UFC 257, McGregor was scheduled to donate $500,000 to the Good Fight Foundation as he had pledged before their scheduled bout.[140] In April 2021, Dustin Poirier stated the donation had not been made. The dispute has been a source of controversy in sports media.[141]

In July 2023, Poirier spent a day with a 17-year-old boy and cancer patient while training for UFC 291 as part of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.[142]

Business ventures

[edit]

Poirier's Louisiana Style Hot Sauce

[edit]

On December 8, 2020, Poirier announced the release of his brand new Cajun hot sauce brand 'Poirier's Louisiana Style'.[143] In July 2021 a special 'Heatonist K.O.' edition was also released.[144]

Rare Stash

[edit]

On January 5, 2022, Poirier announced via Twitter[145] the release of his bourbon 'Rare Stash'.[146]

Personal life

[edit]

Poirier still spends most of his time in Lafayette with his wife and their daughter, but trains at American Top Team in South Florida, where he relocates before fights.[147] The couple had their first child in 2016.[148][149][150]

Poirier got his first tattoo at the age of 14.[151] Currently, his chest and arms are covered in tattoos, including one on his chest that reads 武士道 (bushidō), which means "the way of warriors" in Japanese.[152]

Filmography

[edit]

Films

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2011 Fightville Himself Main character
Year Title Role Notes
2011 Never Back Down 2: The Beatdown Cage Fighter Uncredited Cameo

Video games

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2014 EA Sports UFC Himself Playable character
2016 EA Sports UFC 2 Himself Playable character
2018 EA Sports UFC 3 Himself Playable character
2020 EA Sports UFC 4 Himself Playable character
2023 EA Sports UFC 5 Himself Playable character

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

Mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Professional record breakdown
41 matches 30 wins 10 losses
By knockout 15 3
By submission 8 4
By decision 7 3
No contests 1
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Loss 30–10 (1) Max Holloway Decision (unanimous) UFC 318 July 19, 2025 5 5:00 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States For the symbolic UFC "BMF" title.
Loss 30–9 (1) Islam Makhachev Submission (brabo choke) UFC 302 June 1, 2024 5 2:42 Newark, New Jersey, United States For the UFC Lightweight Championship. Fight of the Night.
Win 30–8 (1) Benoît Saint Denis KO (punches) UFC 299 March 9, 2024 2 2:32 Miami, Florida, United States Fight of the Night.
Loss 29–8 (1) Justin Gaethje KO (head kick) UFC 291 July 29, 2023 2 1:00 Salt Lake City, Utah, United States For the symbolic UFC "BMF" title.
Win 29–7 (1) Michael Chandler Submission (rear-naked choke) UFC 281 November 12, 2022 3 2:00 New York City, New York, United States Fight of the Night.
Loss 28–7 (1) Charles Oliveira Submission (rear-naked choke) UFC 269 December 11, 2021 3 1:02 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States For the UFC Lightweight Championship.
Win 28–6 (1) Conor McGregor TKO (doctor stoppage) UFC 264 July 10, 2021 1 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 27–6 (1) Conor McGregor TKO (punches) UFC 257 January 24, 2021 2 2:32 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Performance of the Night.
Win 26–6 (1) Dan Hooker Decision (unanimous) UFC on ESPN: Poirier vs. Hooker June 27, 2020 5 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Fight of the Night.
Loss 25–6 (1) Khabib Nurmagomedov Submission (rear-naked choke) UFC 242 September 7, 2019 3 2:06 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates For the UFC Lightweight Championship.
Win 25–5 (1) Max Holloway Decision (unanimous) UFC 236 April 13, 2019 5 5:00 Atlanta, Georgia, United States Won the interim UFC Lightweight Championship. Fight of the Night.
Win 24–5 (1) Eddie Alvarez TKO (punches) UFC on Fox: Alvarez vs. Poirier 2 July 28, 2018 2 4:05 Calgary, Alberta, Canada Performance of the Night.
Win 23–5 (1) Justin Gaethje TKO (punches) UFC on Fox: Poirier vs. Gaethje April 14, 2018 4 0:33 Glendale, Arizona, United States Fight of the Night. Gaethje was deducted one point in round 3 due to repeated eye pokes.
Win 22–5 (1) Anthony Pettis Submission (body triangle) UFC Fight Night: Poirier vs. Pettis November 11, 2017 3 2:08 Norfolk, Virginia, United States Fight of the Night.
NC 21–5 (1) Eddie Alvarez NC (illegal knee) UFC 211 May 13, 2017 2 4:12 Dallas, Texas, United States Alvarez landed illegal knees to Poirier's head, who was a downed opponent.
Win 21–5 Jim Miller Decision (majority) UFC 208 February 11, 2017 3 5:00 Brooklyn, New York, United States Fight of the Night.
Loss 20–5 Michael Johnson KO (punches) UFC Fight Night: Poirier vs. Johnson September 17, 2016 1 1:35 Hidalgo, Texas, United States
Win 20–4 Bobby Green KO (punches) UFC 199 June 4, 2016 1 2:53 Inglewood, California, United States
Win 19–4 Joseph Duffy Decision (unanimous) UFC 195 January 2, 2016 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 18–4 Yancy Medeiros TKO (body kick and punches) UFC Fight Night: Boetsch vs. Henderson June 6, 2015 1 2:38 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States Catchweight (159 lb) bout; Medeiros missed weight. Performance of the Night.
Win 17–4 Carlos Diego Ferreira KO (punches) UFC Fight Night: Mendes vs. Lamas April 4, 2015 1 3:45 Fairfax, Virginia, United States Return to Lightweight. Performance of the Night.
Loss 16–4 Conor McGregor TKO (punches) UFC 178 September 27, 2014 1 1:46 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 16–3 Akira Corassani TKO (punches) The Ultimate Fighter Nations Finale: Bisping vs. Kennedy April 16, 2014 2 0:42 Quebec City, Quebec, Canada Fight of the Night.
Win 15–3 Diego Brandão KO (punches) UFC 168 December 28, 2013 1 4:54 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Catchweight (151.5 lb) bout; Brandão missed weight.
Win 14–3 Erik Koch Decision (unanimous) UFC 164 August 31, 2013 3 5:00 Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
Loss 13–3 Cub Swanson Decision (unanimous) UFC on Fuel TV: Barão vs. McDonald February 16, 2013 3 5:00 London, England
Win 13–2 Jonathan Brookins Submission (brabo choke) The Ultimate Fighter: Team Carwin vs. Team Nelson Finale December 15, 2012 1 4:15 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Loss 12–2 Jung Chan-sung Technical Submission (brabo choke) UFC on Fuel TV: The Korean Zombie vs. Poirier May 15, 2012 4 1:07 Fairfax, Virginia, United States Fight of the Night.
Win 12–1 Max Holloway Submission (triangle armbar) UFC 143 February 4, 2012 1 3:23 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Submission of the Night.
Win 11–1 Pablo Garza Submission (brabo choke) UFC on Fox: Velasquez vs. dos Santos November 12, 2011 2 1:32 Anaheim, California, United States
Win 10–1 Jason Young Decision (unanimous) UFC 131 June 11, 2011 3 5:00 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Win 9–1 Josh Grispi Decision (unanimous) UFC 125 January 1, 2011 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Featherweight debut.
Win 8–1 Zach Micklewright TKO (punches) WEC 52 November 11, 2010 1 0:53 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Loss 7–1 Danny Castillo Decision (unanimous) WEC 50 August 18, 2010 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 7–0 Derek Gauthier KO (punches) Ringside MMA 7 June 18, 2010 1 0:57 Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Win 6–0 Derrick Krantz Submission (armbar) USA MMA 11 March 6, 2010 2 3:35 Lafayette, Louisiana, United States
Win 5–0 Ronny Lis Submission (armbar) USA MMA 10 November 13, 2009 1 0:51 Lake Charles, Louisiana, United States
Win 4–0 Daniel Watts KO (punches) Bang FC 10 October 31, 2009 1 1:26 Greenville, Mississippi, United States
Win 3–0 Joe Torrez TKO (punches) USA MMA 8 August 1, 2009 1 2:37 New Iberia, Louisiana, United States
Win 2–0 Nate Jolly Submission (armbar) Cajun FC 1 June 26, 2009 2 3:54 New Iberia, Louisiana, United States
Win 1–0 Aaron Suarez KO (punches) USA MMA 7 May 16, 2009 1 1:19 Shreveport, Louisiana, United States

[188]

Amateur mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Win 7–0 Paul Soileau KO (punches) USA MMA 6 February 28, 2009 2 0:16 Lafayette, Louisiana, United States
Win 6–0 Gilbert Jimenez Decision (unanimous) No Love Entertainment: Full Throttle January 24, 2009 3 4:00 New Orleans, Louisiana United States
Win 5–0 Mario Jaquez KO (punches) Collision at the Coliseum 4: Caged Conflict November 28, 2008 1 0:25 Lafayette, Louisiana, United States
Win 4–0 Will Barlow KO (punches) Ring Rulers: Rumble on the River July 26, 2008 2 0:24 Alexandria, Louisiana, United States
Win 3–0 Chad Buckley TKO (punches) ISCF: World Amateur Championships 2008 May 4, 2008 2 0:35 Cedar Rapids, Iowa, United States Won the ISCF Lightweight Tournament Championship.
Win 2–0 Kody Blazek Submission (triangle choke) ISCF: World Amateur Championships 2008 May 3, 2008 1 2:02 Cedar Rapids, Iowa, United States ISCF Lightweight Tournament Semi-Finals.
Win 1–0 Wesley Branch TKO (punches) ISCF: Battle Cage 360 December 8, 2007 1 1:52 Texarkana, Arkansas, United States Welterweight debut.

[189] [190]

Pay-per-view bouts

[edit]
No. Event Fight Date Venue City PPV Buys
1. UFC 236 Holloway vs. Poirier 2 April 13, 2019 State Farm Arena Atlanta, Georgia, U.S 100,000[191]
2. UFC 242 Khabib vs. Poirier September 7, 2019 The Arena, Yas Island Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 1,000,000[192]
3. UFC 257 Poirier vs. McGregor 2 January 24, 2021 Etihad Arena Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 1,600,000[193]
4. UFC 264 Poirier vs. McGregor 3 July 10, 2021 T-Mobile Arena Las Vegas, Nevada, US 1,800,000[194]
5. UFC 269 Oliveira vs. Poirier December 12, 2021 T-Mobile Arena Las Vegas, Nevada, US 500,000[195]
6. UFC 291 Poirier vs. Gaethje 2 July 29, 2023 Delta Center Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S Not Disclosed[196]
7. UFC 302 Makhachev vs. Poirier June 1, 2024 Prudential Center Newark, New Jersey, U.S Not Disclosed[197]
8. UFC 318 Holloway vs. Poirier 3 July 19, 2025 Smoothie King Center New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S Not Disclosed[198]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Dustin Glenn Poirier (born January 19, 1989), known by his nickname "The Diamond," is a retired American mixed martial artist who competed professionally in the (UFC), primarily in the featherweight and divisions, from 2011 until his retirement in July 2025. Over his 16-year UFC tenure, Poirier amassed a professional record of 30 wins, 10 losses, and one no contest, with 15 victories by knockout or technical knockout and seven by submission, tying him for fifth in UFC history with 22 total wins and fourth with 11 knockouts. He captured the UFC Interim Lightweight Championship in 2019 by defeating via fifth-round submission at and defended it once before unifying the title in a loss to later that year. Poirier is renowned for high-profile victories, including two triumphs over in 2021—at by second-round knockout and by third-round technical knockout—along with wins against notable opponents like , , and . Hailing from , where he stands at 5 feet 9 inches tall with a 72-inch reach and fights from a , Poirier began his MMA journey in 2009 after initial training in and , eventually earning a black belt in the latter. His career highlighted resilience and fan appeal, marked by 13 first-round finishes and contributions outside the octagon, such as founding The Good Fight Foundation to support children's causes and launching a brand. Poirier announced his following a unanimous decision loss to in the main event of UFC 318 on July 19, 2025, for the symbolic BMF Championship, reflecting on a career defined by perseverance through multiple weight class transitions and comeback narratives.

Early life and background

Childhood in Louisiana

Dustin Poirier was born on January 19, 1989, in , a city in the heart of Cajun country. His parents, Darrell Poirier and Jere Chaisson, separated when he was five years old, after which he was raised primarily by his mother, along with his grandmother and two brothers, in the economically challenged Northside neighborhood of Lafayette. The family faced significant financial difficulties, including periods of reliance on food stamps, and frequently moved within the rougher sections of the city, where and were commonplace. Poirier has described his early surroundings as devoid of opportunities, shaping a childhood marked by resilience amid adversity. From a young age, Poirier exhibited a combative and adventurous spirit, often engaging in play fights with plastic weapons and impromptu matches with neighborhood children as early as age five. He developed a reputation as the unofficial street champion of his area, but this penchant for fighting soon led to trouble; at around age 10, he was arrested after knocking out the teeth of an older teenager in a makeshift ring, resulting in a appearance for juvenile authorities. Poirier struggled academically and emotionally with formal schooling, beginning to skip classes as early as —once walking four blocks to a store to call services because he disliked being there—and viewing the classroom as confining. During at Acadian Middle School, he met his future , Jolie, who first encountered him amid a hallway brawl. Poirier's rebellious streak intensified in his early teens; he was expelled from for fighting and, due to persistent , spent one month in juvenile detention followed by three months in a military-style boot camp, experiences that failed to curb his defiance. By age 16, after completing just one year at Northside High School, he dropped out entirely, later likening the educational system to "" and citing a lack of direction. With no immediate ambitions, he took a job at a local , spending his free time smoking, drinking, and continuing to navigate the uncertainties of his environment in Lafayette.

Introduction to martial arts

Dustin Poirier, born on January 19, 1989, in , grew up in a challenging environment marked by his parents' separation at age five and frequent relocations within the rougher sections of the city. From a young age, he was involved in street fights, often defending himself or engaging in conflicts that shaped his combative nature; by eighth grade, he was known for brawling in the hallways of Acadian Middle School. Despite of high school, Poirier's innate fighting instinct led him to seek structured outlets for his aggression, initially drawn to as a means to channel his energy. At around age 17 in late 2006, Poirier discovered (MMA) training opportunities in his hometown through Gladiators Academy, where he began working under coach , a retired MMA fighter. Initially exploring gyms for formal instruction, Poirier attended his first MMA session on a whim and immediately fell in love with the sport's comprehensive blend of striking, , and strategy. This marked his formal introduction to martial arts, transitioning from unstructured street fighting to disciplined training that emphasized , , and wrestling fundamentals. Under Credeur's guidance at Gladiators Academy, Poirier progressed in his training, eventually earning a black belt in in 2017. He has reflected on this period as transformative, stating, "I was born a fighter. I started looking into before I found that I could get MMA training in my hometown. I went one day to check it out and that was a wrap – I fell in love with the sport." Within six months of starting training, Poirier entered his first MMA bout in 2007, showcasing the raw talent that would propel him through regional circuits. This early immersion not only provided structure but also introduced him to the mental discipline required for professional fighting, setting the foundation for his career.

Amateur and early professional career

Amateur accomplishments

Dustin Poirier began competing in amateur in 2007, shortly after starting formal training in the sport at age 18. Over the course of his amateur career, he compiled an 8-1 record, primarily fighting in the division at 155 pounds. This strong showing included multiple finishes, with five knockouts and one submission among his victories, demonstrating his early proficiency in striking and . A key highlight of Poirier's amateur tenure was his participation in the 2008 ISCF World Amateur MMA Championships in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, an 8-man single-elimination tournament. In the preliminaries, he submitted Kody Blazek via triangle choke at 2:02 of the first round, advancing to the finals where he defeated Chad Buckley via TKO (punches) at 0:35 of the second round to claim the ISCF Lightweight Tournament Championship. This victory marked his only recorded tournament title and underscored his competitive edge in high-stakes amateur events. Poirier also captured two regional lightweight titles during this period, competing in promotions across Louisiana and surrounding states. Notable wins included a second-round knockout over Paul Soileau at USA MMA 6: Night of Champions on February 28, 2009, which helped solidify his undefeated streak leading into his professional debut later that year. His sole amateur loss came early against an unranked opponent, but he rebounded decisively, using the experience to refine his "Thugjitsu" style blending Brazilian jiu-jitsu and boxing. These accomplishments in the amateur ranks positioned him for a rapid rise in professional MMA.

Pre-UFC professional fights

Dustin Poirier turned professional in 2009 following an 8-1 record that included two belts at 155 pounds and a in an eight-man tournament in . His early professional career took place primarily in regional promotions in the , where he quickly established himself as a finisher with a combination of striking power and submission expertise. Competing in events sanctioned by organizations like USA MMA and Cajun Fighting Championships, Poirier notched seven straight wins, all by stoppage, demonstrating his aggressive style and ability to end fights early. In August 2010, Poirier signed with the (WEC) promotion, making his promotional debut against at WEC 50 in . Castillo dominated the standup exchanges, outlanding Poirier significantly en route to a victory (30-27 x3), marking Poirier's first professional loss. He rebounded two months later at WEC 52 against Zachary Micklewright, overwhelming his opponent with a flurry of punches for a first-round TKO stoppage at just 53 seconds, showcasing the explosive knockout power that would become a hallmark of his career. These WEC bouts, part of the promotion's division ahead of its merger with the UFC, brought Poirier to an 8-1 record entering the . Poirier's pre-UFC professional record consisted of the following fights:
DateOpponentResultMethodRoundTimeEvent
May 16, 2009Aaron SuarezWinKO (Punches)11:19USA MMA 7 - River City Rampage
Jun 26, 2009Nate JollyWinSubmission (Armbar)23:54CFC - Cajun Fighting Championships
Aug 01, 2009Joe TorrezWinTKO (Punches)12:37USA MMA 8 - Natural Disaster 3
Oct 31, 2009Daniel WattsWinKO (Punches)11:26BFC - Bang Fighting Championships
Nov 13, 2009Ronnie LisWinSubmission (Armbar)10:51USA MMA - Border War 2
Mar 06, 2010Derrick KrantzWinSubmission (Armbar)23:35USA MMA - Night of Champions 2
Jun 18, 2010Derek GauthierWinKO (Punches)10:57Ringside MMA 7 - No Escape
Aug 18, 2010Danny CastilloLossDecision (Unanimous)35:00WEC 50 - Cruz vs. Benavidez 2
Nov 11, 2010Zachary MicklewrightWinTKO (Punches)10:53WEC 52 - Faber vs. Mizugaki

Ultimate Fighting Championship career

UFC debut and featherweight division

Dustin Poirier made his debut on January 1, 2011, at : Resolution in , , stepping in on short notice against after champion withdrew due to injury. Poirier, then 22 years old with an 8-1 professional record, dominated the bout with superior striking and , outlanding Grispi 128-45 in significant strikes en route to a victory (30-27 on all three judges' scorecards). This performance earned him immediate recognition as a promising prospect, showcasing his aggressive style and finishing ability early in his tenure. Following his debut, Poirier continued to build momentum in the 145-pound division. On June 11, 2011, at , he defeated Jason Young via unanimous decision (30-27 x3), controlling the fight with takedowns and ground control despite a late rally from Young. He followed this with a submission win over Pablo Garza on November 12, 2011, at UFC on Fox 1, locking in an armbar in the second round at 1:32 after surviving an early guillotine attempt. Poirier's first-round submission of on February 4, 2012, at UFC 143 marked his third straight win, tapping out the 20-year-old debutant at 3:23 and highlighting his opportunistic grappling. Poirier's featherweight run included high-profile tests that shaped his development. He headlined UFC on Fuel TV 3 against Chan Sung Jung on May 15, 2012, in , where "The Korean Zombie" earned a fourth-round D'Arce choke submission at 1:07 in a grueling war that earned Fight of the Night honors and propelled Jung toward a title shot. Recovering quickly, Poirier submitted Jonathan Brookins via rear-naked choke in the first round (4:15) at 16 Finale on December 15, 2012, extending his streak to two wins. However, a unanimous decision loss (30-27 x2, 29-28) to on February 16, 2013, at UFC on Fuel TV 7 exposed vulnerabilities in his striking defense against elite boxers, though he showed resilience by absorbing heavy damage. In the latter stages of his featherweight career, Poirier rebounded with a four-fight winning streak that solidified his status as a top contender. He outpointed via unanimous decision (29-28 x3) on August 31, 2013, at UFC 164, using effective wrestling to neutralize Koch's speed. A first-round TKO (punches) over at 4:54 on December 28, 2013, at demonstrated his improving knockout power, followed by a second-round TKO (punches) of at 0:42 on April 16, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 39, earning another Fight of the Night bonus. His division tenure ended on September 27, 2014, at , where an up-and-coming knocked him out with punches at 1:46 of the first round, prompting Poirier to move to for better physical fit and career progression. Over 11 UFC featherweight bouts, Poirier compiled an 8-3 record, with three submissions, two TKOs, and three decisions, establishing himself as a versatile finisher known for his durability and fan-friendly style.

Transition to lightweight

Following his first-round technical knockout loss to Conor McGregor at on September 27, 2014, Poirier decided to return to the division after competing primarily at since his UFC debut. The move was prompted by the grueling demands of cutting to 145 pounds, which Poirier described as making him "hate the process of getting ready for a fight," with his focus shifting from opponent preparation to . He noted that his natural walking weight hovered around 180 pounds, suggesting the lower class had hindered his athleticism and recovery, and announced the transition in December 2014, expressing excitement to "reintroduce myself at a more natural weight." Poirier's return occurred on April 4, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 63 in , where he faced Diego Ferreira in the main card opener. He dominated with sharp and ground strikes, securing a first-round TKO via punches at 3:45 after dropping Ferreira and landing hammerfists. The victory marked his first fight at 155 pounds since 2010 and earned him a Performance of the Night bonus, highlighting his enhanced power and explosiveness without the dehydration fog from prior cuts. Less than two months later, on June 6, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 68 in New Orleans—his home state—Poirier took on in another main card bout. He overwhelmed Medeiros with a flurry of strikes early, dropping him multiple times before finishing with a via punches at 2:38 of the first round. This win, also awarded Performance of the Night, solidified his resurgence, as Poirier later reflected feeling "more athletic, explosive and powerful" at the higher . The back-to-back first-round stoppages propelled him into the rankings and reinvigorated his career trajectory.

Rise to title contention

After moving up to the division in 2015 following a loss to at , Dustin Poirier quickly established himself as a dangerous contender with a series of explosive victories. In his debut at 155 pounds, he knocked out Diego Ferreira in the first round at UFC Fight Night 63 on April 4, 2015, showcasing his improved power at the higher weight class. He followed with another first-round stoppage against via punches at UFC Fight Night 68 on June 6, 2015, and earned a over Joseph Duffy in a grueling three-round war at on January 2, 2016, demonstrating his durability and cardio. These performances, capped by a first-round of Bobby Green at on June 4, 2016, built momentum and positioned Poirier as a rising force in the division. A sudden setback came on September 17, 2016, when Poirier was knocked out by Michael Johnson in just 95 seconds at UFC Fight Night 96, snapping his four-fight winning streak and raising questions about his vulnerability to power punchers. Undeterred, Poirier rebounded emphatically with a victory over veteran Jim Miller at on February 11, 2017, grinding out a hard-fought win that reaffirmed his prowess. This set the stage for a pivotal stretch where he defeated high-profile opponents, starting with a third-round submission of former UFC lightweight champion via body triangle at on November 11, 2017, a fight that highlighted his evolving submission game and propelled him into the top 10 rankings. Poirier's ascent accelerated in 2018 with back-to-back triumphs over elite competition that solidified his status as a title contender. On April 14, 2018, at UFC on Fox 29, he outlasted in a brutal, bloody war, securing a fourth-round TKO via punches after absorbing significant damage, a performance widely regarded as one of the year's best fights and earning him Fight of the Night honors. Four months later, on July 28, 2018, at , Poirier avenged a prior loss by stopping former champion with a second-round TKO, further proving his resilience against top-tier strikers and climbing to No. 3 in the rankings. These victories, combined with his 22 UFC bouts of experience and persistent advocacy for a title opportunity, earned him the interim championship bout against at on April 13, 2019.

Interim championship and major rivalries

In April 2019, Dustin Poirier captured the UFC interim lightweight championship by defeating Max Holloway via unanimous decision in the main event of UFC 236. The five-round bout, held on April 13 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, showcased Poirier's superior striking volume and pressure, as he outlanded Holloway 109-88 in significant strikes while defending takedowns effectively. This victory marked Poirier's second win over Holloway, following their 2012 featherweight clash, and solidified a growing rivalry characterized by mutual respect and high-output wars. As interim champion, Poirier earned a unification bout against undisputed titleholder at on September 7, 2019, in . Despite a strong start where Poirier rocked Nurmagomedov with strikes in the first two rounds, he succumbed to a rear-naked choke submission at 2:06 of the third round, ending his interim reign after just five months. The loss intensified Poirier's rivalry with Nurmagomedov, though it remained one-sided, as Poirier later expressed admiration for the champion's dominance while critiquing the post-fight chaos involving Nurmagomedov's team. Following the title defeat, Poirier rebounded against top contenders, deepening his major rivalries in the division. On June 27, 2020, at UFC on ESPN 12 in , he defeated by unanimous decision in a grueling five-round fight, landing 137 significant strikes to Hooker's 108 and securing Fight of the Night honors. This victory positioned Poirier for a high-profile rematch with , reigniting one of UFC's most heated rivalries that originated from McGregor's 2014 first-round TKO of Poirier at UFC 178. The trilogy with McGregor defined Poirier's post-interim resurgence. At on January 23, 2021, in , Poirier avenged the 2014 loss with a second-round TKO via punches at 2:32, capitalizing on McGregor's leg kicks with counterstrikes that dropped him against the cage. Their rubber match at on July 10, 2021, in ended controversially when Poirier won by first-round TKO due to a doctor stoppage at 5:00 after McGregor suffered a on a checked kick. The feud, marked by personal trash-talk and McGregor's legal troubles involving Poirier, elevated Poirier's status as a resilient in the division, with the two fights drawing over 1.8 million buys combined.

Title challenges and later bouts

Following his back-to-back victories over in 2021, Poirier secured a shot at the undisputed UFC Lightweight Championship against on December 11, 2021, at in . The bout was a high-stakes clash between two elite strikers with strong submission games, with Poirier entering as a heavy favorite based on his recent knockouts. In a competitive first two rounds marked by intense striking exchanges, Oliveira capitalized on a third-round attempt by Poirier, transitioning to a rear-naked choke for the submission win at 1:02. This marked Poirier's second unsuccessful bid for the lightweight title, highlighting the division's depth and his vulnerability to in prolonged fights. After nearly a year away to recover and regroup, Poirier returned on November 12, 2022, at in , facing former Bellator champion in a pivotal matchup. The fight lived up to expectations as an all-out war, with Chandler's explosive wrestling and power punching testing Poirier's durability early. Poirier weathered the storm, using precise counterstrikes and clinch work to wear down Chandler before securing a rear-naked choke submission at 2:00 of the third round. The victory, his first submission win in the UFC since 2017, propelled him back into title contention and demonstrated his tactical evolution against aggressive wrestlers. Poirier took another extended break before competing again on March 9, 2024, at in , where he met surging French prospect Benoit Saint Denis. Saint Denis, known for his prowess and finishing ability, dominated the first round with takedowns and ground control, putting Poirier in peril. However, Poirier rallied in the second round with sharp , landing a devastating left hook counter that dropped Saint Denis and led to a via follow-up punches at 2:32. This emphatic stoppage, Poirier's 12th UFC , tied him for the most in history and reaffirmed his striking pedigree at age 35. The win over Saint Denis earned Poirier a third opportunity at the title against champion on June 1, 2024, at UFC 302 in . As Makhachev's third defense, the fight pitted Poirier's knockout power against the champion's elite sambo and chain wrestling. Poirier started strong, rocking Makhachev with heavy punches in the first round and maintaining pressure through the middle rounds despite takedown attempts. In the fifth round, however, Makhachev secured a takedown and locked in a D'Arce choke—later clarified as a Brabo variation—for the submission at 2:42, ending Poirier's title aspirations. The grueling five-round battle showcased Poirier's heart but underscored the challenges of overcoming Makhachev's grappling dominance.

BMF title fight and retirement

At UFC 318 on July 19, 2025, in New Orleans, Dustin Poirier faced in a bout for the symbolic BMF (Baddest ) title, marking Poirier's announced retirement fight after a 16-year professional career. The matchup served as the third encounter between the two fighters, with Poirier holding prior victories over Holloway—a in their 2019 interim at and a submission in an earlier clash. Poirier, entering at 30-8, aimed to cap his legacy with a win in his hometown, while Holloway, the defending BMF champion at 27-7, sought to retain the belt he had won earlier in 2025. The fight unfolded as an intense, back-and-forth war over five rounds, showcasing both fighters' durability and striking prowess in front of a raucous local crowd at the . Poirier started strong, landing heavy combinations and a notable knockdown in the first round with a left hook, but Holloway absorbed the punishment and countered with his signature volume punching and leg kicks. In rounds two and three, Holloway gained momentum, pressuring Poirier against the cage and bloodying him with elbows and knees in the clinch, though Poirier responded with attempts and body shots to stay competitive. The championship rounds saw Poirier rally with crisp and takedown threats, but Holloway's relentless pace and superior cardio edged out the exchanges. Judges scored the bout unanimously for Holloway (48-47, 49-46, 49-46), retaining the BMF title in what was hailed as an instant classic and earning Fight of the Night honors. Poirier, gracious in defeat, confirmed his retirement immediately post-fight during his octagon interview, stating it was time to prioritize family, including his wife and young daughter, with a baby boy on the way. He reflected on not wanting the sport to "retire him" and expressed readiness for a normal life after enduring over 40 professional bouts, many of which were grueling wars. Poirier's retirement, announced in April 2025 alongside the fight booking, closed a storied UFC tenure that included an interim championship, multiple title challenges, and induction into the discussions for his contributions to the sport's excitement. In the weeks following UFC 318, he shared emotional moments, such as a heartfelt letter from his daughter expressing relief at his safety, and began transitioning to post-fighting pursuits like and his business. Despite the loss, the bout underscored Poirier's resilience, leaving a legacy as one of MMA's most entertaining and respected competitors.

Fighting style and preparation

Striking and grappling techniques

Dustin Poirier employs a in his striking, characterized by excellent distance management and fluid footwork that allows him to create angles for attacks. His is technical and power-oriented, with a hard, accurate left that serves as a primary weapon, often delivered off the counter to exploit opponents' advances. Poirier frequently chains combinations, incorporating short right with strong rotational torque for knockout potential, as demonstrated in his TKO of at UFC on FOX 29, where he sat down heavily on punches to end the fight in the fourth round. He integrates leg and body kicks effectively to set up exchanges, using sudden calf kicks to disrupt rhythm and fast body kicks to target the midsection, though his head kicks are more setup-oriented than finishing tools. A signature technique is the check , which he employs to time incoming , notably ripping hooks to the body and head in fluid sequences against at UFC 264. In the clinch, Poirier excels with powerful knees to the body and short hooks during hand-fighting, maintaining strong takedown defense while landing damaging strikes, though he rarely uses elbows. Overall, his striking output averages 5.24 significant strikes landed per minute, supported by superior cardio that enables sustained pressure. Poirier holds a black belt in , which informs his opportunistic approach focused on submissions rather than prolonged control. He possesses solid takedown offense, utilizing double- and single-leg entries to advance position, as seen when he secured takedowns against at UFC 143 to transition into ground attacks. Defensively, his takedown defense stands at 64 percent, allowing him to scramble effectively and return to his feet, though aggressive submission hunts like the can expose him to counters. His submission arsenal includes the D'Arce choke, which he has used to finish Jonathan Brookins at The Ultimate Fighter 14 Finale by countering a takedown attempt and locking it from behind for the tap, and Pablo Garza at UFC on FOX 1 by isolating the arm from half-guard as Garza stood. Poirier also favors the guillotine, attempting it reactively against wrestlers like Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 242, though it often leads to vulnerable positions on the bottom where he absorbs ground-and-pound. Another highlight is his mounted triangle armbar, executed against Holloway at UFC 143 by trapping the arm, sliding into a triangle to break posture, and rolling to extend for the submission. He demonstrates proficiency in back-taking and ground-and-pound from top position, as in his rear-naked choke submission of Michael Chandler at UFC 281, but remains susceptible to dominant grapplers due to limited top control endurance.

Training regimen and camps

Dustin Poirier has trained at (ATT) in , since 2012, following a period of seeking improved sparring partners after a loss to Chan Sung Jung. The facility, expanded to 40,000 square feet in 2016, provides access to elite coaches including head coach Mike Brown and striking specialist Dyah Davis, son of Olympic boxer Howard Davis Jr. Poirier relocated full-time to the area with his wife's support, prioritizing the gym's resources for skill refinement over personal leisure during camps. His typical fight camp lasts 8-10 weeks, beginning with dieting in before shifting to for intensive training. Sessions occur twice daily, six days a week, with Sundays for rest, encompassing , live , wrestling, jiu-jitsu, , and strength conditioning. Early phases emphasize general work, cardio, and , transitioning later to opponent-specific strategies, such as countering fast starts with leg kicks and wrestling in preparation for at UFC 264. Global specialists, like wrestlers, are often brought in to simulate rivals. Strength and conditioning incorporate explosive movements like box jumps, tractor tire flips, weighted sled pushes, and work to build and elusiveness against grapplers. Poirier maintains a calorie-controlled diet with 4-5 meals daily, featuring high-protein options such as whites, , avocados, , almonds, and plant-based shakes, while gradually increasing carbs for recovery after learning to avoid excessive restriction. Recovery prioritizes health through reduced after heavy sessions and higher intake, as Poirier notes, "You only have one and that’s very important for ."

Philanthropy and business activities

Charitable foundations

Dustin Poirier co-founded The Good Fight Foundation in 2018 with his wife, Jolie Poirier, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting underserved communities in Louisiana. The foundation's mission centers on addressing food insecurity, healthcare needs, and disaster relief through targeted fundraising and direct aid initiatives. The organization began modestly by auctioning Poirier's UFC fight memorabilia to generate funds, with early efforts including the sale of his UFC 211 fight kit, which provided 3,000 meals to the Second Harvest Food Bank. Over the years, The Good Fight has expanded its scope to include annual back-to-school supply drives, distributing essential items such as backpacks filled with school supplies; in August 2025, the foundation gave away more than 1,200 backpacks to children in need during its fifth annual event in Lafayette. Additional programs have focused on providing car seats for families, delivering meals to those facing hunger, and supporting community-specific causes, such as raising funds for a memorial to fallen police officer Michael Middlebrook, donating 500 backpacks to Acadian Middle School, and funding a playground for children with disabilities. In 2021, the foundation collaborated with apparel brand Robert Graham on a limited-edition capsule collection, with all proceeds directed toward its philanthropic efforts. Poirier's hands-on involvement, including personally distributing aid, has been a hallmark of the organization's work, emphasizing direct community engagement over distant donations. For these contributions, Poirier received the inaugural Community Award from the UFC in June 2020, which included a $25,000 donation to The Good Fight Foundation to further its initiatives.

Hot sauce brand and other ventures

In 2020, during the , Dustin Poirier launched Poirier's Louisiana Style Hot Sauce in collaboration with Heartbeat Hot Sauce Co. and Heatonist, drawing inspiration from his Cajun heritage in . The initial offering features a medium-heat blend (rated 3/10) made with distilled , aged peppers, , red habanero, sea salt, garlic, and non-GMO canola oil, and is vegan and gluten-free. Priced at $12 per 6-ounce bottle, it became available online through Heatonist and Heartbeat, as well as in select U.S. retailers like . Subsequent variants include the KO Edition, released in August 2021 with added spice for a bolder profile, and the Creole Maple, introduced in November 2022, which incorporates for a sweeter twist. The brand has generated over $1 million in revenue and reflects Poirier's personal passion for cooking and flavors. Beyond , Poirier co-founded Rare Stash Bourbon in 2022, a premium whiskey line featuring limited-edition blends from rare barrel lots sourced from , , , and . The inaugural release, Rare Stash #1, combines straight bourbons aged up to 9 years with a hint of bourbon for added complexity, emphasizing the brand's "Live Rare, Be Rare" ethos tied to Poirier's resilient persona. Subsequent batches, such as #2 (a blend of 8.5- and 7.5-year-old straight bourbons) and #3 (100% straight bourbon from 9- and 5-year-old barrels), are sold in 750ml bottles for around $40–$50 and distributed through specialty liquor stores. Poirier also entered the wellness sector in early 2021 by co-founding REAP CBD, a line of products designed for athlete recovery and performance, motivated by his own use of CBD during training camps to aid in and mental focus. The products, including tinctures and topicals, target UFC fighters and fitness enthusiasts, though specific sales figures remain private. In 2023, Poirier and his wife Jolie joined a group of Lafayette locals to acquire Marcello's Wine Market, a historic local retailer specializing in wines, tequilas, and bourbons—including Rare Stash—preserving its community role with an investment estimated in the hundreds of thousands. Additionally, he has pursued investments to diversify his portfolio.

Personal life and media

Family and residence

Dustin Poirier has been married to Jolie Poirier (née LeBlanc) since September 4, 2009. The couple first met in in their hometown of , and have maintained a strong partnership throughout Poirier's MMA career. Poirier and his wife have one daughter, Parker Noelle Poirier, born on August 20, 2016. As of October 2025, the couple is expecting their second child, a son, due in December 2025. Family remains a central focus for Poirier, who has emphasized the importance of raising his children near extended relatives. Poirier and his reside in , where he was born and raised. The couple relocated back to the area in 2016 shortly after their daughter's birth, prioritizing proximity to grandparents, uncles, and aunts to foster a close-knit environment. Lafayette's support has been a key factor in their decision to settle there permanently.

Film and television roles

Dustin Poirier first appeared on screen in the 2011 documentary , directed by Michael Tucker and Epperlein, which explored the grassroots scene in southern . The film featured archival footage of Poirier's early professional bouts and interviews highlighting his rise as a local fighter, capturing the gritty environment that shaped his career. That same year, Poirier made an uncredited cameo in the direct-to-video martial arts film Never Back Down 2: The Beatdown, where he portrayed an unnamed cage fighter defeated in a brief, intense bout during a training sequence. The appearance, filmed around the time of his UFC debut, showcased his real-life fighting skills in a scripted context. On television, Poirier has recurrently appeared as himself in the UFC's Countdown to UFC series, a documentary-style program that premiered in and provides behind-the-scenes coverage of fighters' preparations for major events. His episodes often detail his training camps, strategy breakdowns, and personal reflections leading into high-profile bouts. In November 2025, Poirier was cast in , the sequel to the 2024 action remake starring and . Joining other UFC alumni such as and Stephen Thompson, Poirier's role—described as part of an ensemble featuring professional fighters—remains unspecified, with production underway for an anticipated release.

Championships and achievements

Major titles won

Dustin Poirier captured the interim UFC Lightweight Championship on April 13, 2019, at UFC 236 in Atlanta, Georgia, defeating then-UFC Featherweight Champion Max Holloway via unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 49-46). The five-round bout was a high-volume striking affair, with Poirier landing 178 significant strikes to Holloway's 181 while absorbing heavy damage, including a cut over his left eye that required medical attention post-fight. This victory marked Poirier's first UFC title of any kind and elevated his status as a top contender in the lightweight division, especially amid champion Khabib Nurmagomedov's inactivity due to prior commitments. Poirier's reign as interim champion lasted approximately five months, ending on September 7, 2019, at in , where he was submitted by via rear-naked choke in the third round, unifying the titles. During his brief tenure, Poirier did not defend the belt, as the unification bout was scheduled promptly to resolve the division's championship landscape. This interim title remains Poirier's sole major championship achievement in professional , underscoring his resilience and elite-level competition despite not securing the undisputed crown.

Awards and records

Dustin Poirier earned 15 post-fight bonuses during his UFC tenure as of his retirement in July 2025, accumulating $755,000 in additional pay for his performances. He shares the UFC record for the most Fight of the Night awards with 10, tied with , highlighting his consistent delivery of thrilling bouts. Additionally, Poirier secured four Performance of the Night bonuses and one Submission of the Night award. In recognition of his off-octagon efforts, Poirier received the inaugural Community Award in 2020, presented by the UFC and for his work with The Good Fight Foundation, which included a $25,000 donation to his chosen charity. Among statistical records as of his retirement in July 2025, Poirier ranks second in UFC history for /TKO victories with nine. He also holds the fifth-most significant strikes landed in UFC history at 1,861, and ties for third in knockdowns with 11.

Mixed martial arts record

Professional record

Dustin Poirier's professional mixed martial arts record as of November 2025 stands at 30 wins, 10 losses, and 1 no contest, with 15 victories by or technical , 8 by submission, and 7 by decision. He debuted professionally in 2009 and has competed primarily in the division, accumulating experience across regional promotions, the (WEC), and the (UFC). His career highlights include multiple high-profile bouts against top contenders, showcasing a balanced skill set in striking and . The following table details his complete professional fight history, listed chronologically from most recent to earliest:
ResultRecordOpponentMethodRoundTimeEventDate
Loss30–10 (1)Max HollowayDecision (Unanimous)55:00UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3Jul 19, 2025
Loss30–9 (1)Islam MakhachevSubmission (Brabo Choke)52:42UFC 302: Makhachev vs. PoirierJun 1, 2024
Win30–8 (1)Benoit St. DenisKO (Punches)22:32UFC 299: O'Malley vs. Vera 2Mar 9, 2024
Loss29–8 (1)Justin GaethjeKO (Head Kick)21:00UFC 291: Poirier vs. Gaethje 2Jul 29, 2023
Win30–7 (1)Michael ChandlerSubmission (Rear-Naked Choke)32:00UFC 281: Adesanya vs. PereiraNov 12, 2022
Loss29–7 (1)Charles OliveiraSubmission (Rear-Naked Choke)31:02UFC 269: Oliveira vs. PoirierDec 11, 2021
Win30–6 (1)Conor McGregorTKO (Leg Injury)15:00UFC 264: Poirier vs. McGregor 3Jul 10, 2021
Win29–6 (1)Conor McGregorKO (Punches)22:32UFC 257: Poirier vs. McGregor 2Jan 23, 2021
Win28–6 (1)Dan HookerDecision (Unanimous)55:00UFC on ESPN 12: Poirier vs. HookerJun 27, 2020
Loss27–6 (1)Khabib NurmagomedovSubmission (Rear-Naked Choke)32:06UFC 242: Khabib vs. PoirierSep 7, 2019
Win28–5 (1)Max HollowayDecision (Unanimous)55:00UFC 236: Holloway vs. PoirierApr 13, 2019
Win27–5 (1)Eddie AlvarezTKO (Punches)24:05UFC on Fox 30: Alvarez vs. Poirier 2Jul 28, 2018
Win26–5 (1)Justin GaethjeTKO (Punches)40:33UFC on Fox 29: Poirier vs. GaethjeApr 14, 2018
Win25–5 (1)Anthony PettisSubmission (Body Triangle)32:08UFC Fight Night 120: Poirier vs. PettisNov 11, 2017
NC24–5 (1)Eddie AlvarezNo Contest (Illegal Knee)24:12UFC 211: Miocic vs. Dos Santos 2May 13, 2017
Win24–5Jim MillerDecision (Majority)35:00UFC 208: Holm vs. de RandamieFeb 11, 2017
Loss23–5Michael JohnsonKO (Punches)11:35UFC Fight Night 94: Poirier vs. JohnsonSep 17, 2016
Win24–4Bobby GreenKO (Punches)12:53UFC 199: Rockhold vs. Bisping 2Jun 4, 2016
Win23–4Joseph DuffyDecision (Unanimous)35:00UFC 195: Lawler vs. ConditJan 2, 2016
Win22–4Yancy MedeirosTKO (Punches)12:38UFC Fight Night 68: Boetsch vs. HendersonJun 6, 2015
Win21–4Diego FerreiraKO (Punches)13:45UFC Fight Night 63: Mendes vs. LamasApr 4, 2015
Loss20–4Conor McGregorTKO (Punches)11:46UFC 178: Johnson vs. CariasoSep 27, 2014
Win21–3Akira CorassaniTKO (Punches)20:42The Ultimate Fighter Nations FinaleApr 16, 2014
Win20–3Diego BrandaoKO (Punches)14:54UFC 168: Weidman vs. Silva 2Dec 28, 2013
Win19–3Erik KochDecision (Unanimous)35:00UFC 164: Henderson vs. Pettis 2Aug 31, 2013
Loss18–3Cub SwansonDecision (Unanimous)35:00UFC on Fuel TV 7: Barao vs. McDonaldFeb 16, 2013
Win19–2Jonathan BrookinsSubmission (Brabo Choke)14:15The Ultimate Fighter 16 FinaleDec 15, 2012
Loss18–2Chan Sung JungTechnical Submission (Brabo Choke)41:07UFC on Fuel TV 3: Korean Zombie vs. PoirierMay 15, 2012
Win19–1Max HollowaySubmission (Triangle Armbar)13:23UFC 143: Diaz vs. ConditFeb 4, 2012
Win18–1Pablo GarzaSubmission (Brabo Choke)21:32UFC on Fox 1: Velasquez vs. Dos SantosNov 12, 2011
Win17–1Jason YoungDecision (Unanimous)35:00UFC 131: Dos Santos vs. CarwinJun 11, 2011
Win16–1Josh GrispiDecision (Unanimous)35:00UFC 125: ResolutionJan 1, 2011
Win15–1Zachary MicklewrightTKO (Punches)10:53WEC 52: Faber vs. MizugakiNov 11, 2010
Loss14–1Danny CastilloDecision (Unanimous)35:00WEC 50: Cruz vs. Benavidez 2Aug 18, 2010
Win14–0Derek GauthierKO (Punches)10:57Ringside MMA 7: No EscapeJun 18, 2010
Win13–0Derrick KrantzSubmission (Armbar)23:35USA MMA: Night of Champions 2Mar 6, 2010
Win12–0Ronnie LisSubmission (Armbar)10:51USA MMA: Border War 2Nov 13, 2009
Win11–0Daniel WattsKO (Punches)11:26BFC: Bang Fighting ChampionshipsOct 31, 2009
Win10–0Joe TorrezTKO (Punches)12:37USA MMA 8: Natural Disaster 3Aug 1, 2009
Win9–0Nate JollySubmission (Armbar)23:54CFC: Cajun Fighting ChampionshipsJun 26, 2009
Win8–0Aaron SuarezKO (Punches)11:19Regional event (exact name TBD)Oct 2008

Pay-per-view events

Dustin Poirier has competed in 20 UFC pay-per-view events since his promotional debut, often in high-stakes matchups that have defined his career trajectory, including title challenges and rematches with prominent rivals. These appearances span from early-career bouts to championship opportunities, highlighting his evolution as a contender. Key highlights include his first-round submission victory over at UFC 143 in 2012, which marked an early signature win, and his interim title-winning against Holloway at in 2019. Poirier's trilogy with —a first-round TKO loss at in 2014, followed by knockout wins at in 2021 and later that year—generated massive viewership and underscored his resilience in blockbuster rivalries. Title defenses eluded him in PPV main events, with submission losses to at in 2019 and at in 2021, though he rebounded with a third-round submission over at in 2022. His most recent PPV outings include a knockout loss to at in 2023, a stoppage win over Benoit St. Denis at in 2024, a failed title bid via submission against at UFC 302 in 2024, and a defeat to Holloway in their trilogy bout at UFC 318 in 2025.
DateEventOpponentResultRound/TimeMethod
Jan 1, 2011UFC 125: ResolutionJosh GrispiWin3 / 5:00Unanimous Decision
Jun 11, 2011UFC 131: Dos Santos vs. CarwinJason YoungWin3 / 5:00Unanimous Decision
Feb 4, 2012UFC 143: Diaz vs. ConditMax HollowayWin1 / 3:23Triangle Armbar
Aug 31, 2013UFC 164: Henderson vs. Pettis 2Erik KochWin3 / 5:00Unanimous Decision
Dec 28, 2013UFC 168: Weidman vs. Silva 2Diego BrandaoWin1 / 4:54KO (Punches)
Sep 27, 2014UFC 178: Johnson vs. CariasoConor McGregorLoss1 / 1:46TKO (Punches)
Jan 2, 2016UFC 195: Lawler vs. ConditJoseph DuffyWin3 / 5:00Unanimous Decision
Jun 4, 2016UFC 199: Rockhold vs. Bisping 2Bobby GreenWin1 / 2:53KO (Punches)
Feb 11, 2017UFC 208: Holm vs. de RandamieJim MillerWin3 / 5:00Majority Decision
May 13, 2017UFC 211: Miocic vs. Dos Santos 2Eddie AlvarezNC2 / 4:12Illegal Knee
Apr 13, 2019UFC 236: Holloway vs. PoirierMax HollowayWin5 / 5:00Unanimous Decision (Interim Title)
Sep 7, 2019UFC 242: Khabib vs. PoirierKhabib NurmagomedovLoss3 / 2:06Rear-Naked Choke
Jan 23, 2021UFC 257: Poirier vs. McGregor 2Conor McGregorWin2 / 2:32KO (Punches)
Jul 10, 2021UFC 264: Poirier vs. McGregor 3Conor McGregorWin1 / 5:00TKO (Leg Injury)
Dec 11, 2021UFC 269: Oliveira vs. PoirierCharles OliveiraLoss3 / 1:02Rear-Naked Choke (Title)
Nov 12, 2022UFC 281: Adesanya vs. PereiraMichael ChandlerWin3 / 2:00Rear-Naked Choke
Jul 29, 2023UFC 291: Poirier vs. Gaethje 2Justin GaethjeLoss2 / 1:00KO (Head Kick)
Mar 9, 2024UFC 299: O'Malley vs. Vera 2Benoit St. DenisWin2 / 2:32KO (Punches)
Jun 1, 2024UFC 302: Makhachev vs. PoirierIslam MakhachevLoss5 / 2:42Brabo Choke (Title)
Jul 19, 2025UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3Max HollowayLoss5 / 5:00Unanimous Decision
The table above summarizes Poirier's PPV record, with results verified from official bout records. His 12 wins, 7 losses, and 1 no contest in these events reflect a competitive presence in the division's premier showcases.

References

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