UFC Poirier Vs Holloway 3 A Trilogy In The Making

The world of mixed martial arts is buzzing with anticipation for a potential trilogy fight between two of the most exciting lightweights in UFC history: Dustin "The Diamond" Poirier and Max "Blessed" Holloway. A Poirier vs Holloway 3 clash would not only be a guaranteed barnburner but also a significant event in the careers of both fighters, potentially shaping the future of the lightweight division. This article delves into the history between Poirier and Holloway, the likelihood of a third fight, the potential implications for their careers, and what fans can expect from this highly anticipated matchup.

A History of Thrilling Battles

Poirier and Holloway's rivalry is one etched in the annals of MMA history, marked by two previous encounters that showcased their incredible skills, resilience, and unwavering fighting spirit. Their first meeting occurred over a decade ago, back in 2012 at UFC 143. A young Dustin Poirier, then primarily a featherweight, faced off against an even younger Max Holloway, who was making his promotional debut. Poirier showcased his grappling prowess early, securing a dominant position and ultimately submitting Holloway via triangle armbar in the first round. This victory marked a significant milestone in Poirier's career, solidifying his status as a rising star in the featherweight division.

Fast forward to 2019, and the landscape had shifted dramatically for both fighters. Poirier and Holloway had both ascended to the top of their respective divisions, evolving into more complete and dangerous competitors. They met again at UFC 236, this time for the interim lightweight title. The rematch was a five-round war of attrition, a grueling back-and-forth battle that captivated audiences worldwide. Holloway, known for his relentless striking and seemingly endless cardio, pushed the pace, landing a high volume of strikes. However, Poirier's superior power and tactical adjustments proved to be the difference-maker. Poirier was able to land the heavier blows throughout the fight, visibly hurting Holloway on multiple occasions. He also showcased improved wrestling and grappling, effectively neutralizing Holloway's attempts to take the fight to the ground. The judges ultimately awarded Poirier a unanimous decision victory, crowning him the interim lightweight champion. This fight not only added another chapter to their rivalry but also solidified Poirier's claim as one of the best lightweights in the world. The sheer grit, determination, and skill displayed by both fighters in their two encounters have left fans craving a third fight to complete this epic trilogy.

Will We See Poirier vs Holloway 3?

The likelihood of a Poirier vs Holloway 3 hinges on a multitude of factors, primarily the current trajectories of both fighters and the UFC's matchmaking decisions. Both Poirier and Holloway have expressed interest in a third fight, acknowledging the unfinished business and the potential for another thrilling encounter. However, the timing needs to be right, and the circumstances have to align. Dustin Poirier is currently riding high off impressive victories over some of the lightweight division's elite, including Conor McGregor (twice) and Michael Chandler. He has consistently positioned himself as a top contender for the undisputed lightweight title, a goal that remains his primary focus. A third fight with Holloway could potentially serve as a high-profile, lucrative bout, especially if the title picture becomes unclear or if Poirier wants to stay active while waiting for a title shot opportunity. On the other hand, it also represents a significant risk, as a loss to Holloway could potentially derail his title aspirations.

Max Holloway, despite falling short in his previous two encounters with Poirier, remains one of the most respected and exciting fighters in the featherweight division. His recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular, showcasing his incredible striking prowess and unwavering determination. He holds dominant victories over Calvin Kattar and Yair Rodriguez, both of which were Fight of the Year contenders. Holloway's primary focus is currently reclaiming the featherweight title, a feat he came close to achieving in his last fight against Alexander Volkanovski, although the judges' decision was controversial. A move up to lightweight for a third fight with Poirier would depend on whether he can secure another shot at the featherweight title or if the opportunity to settle the score with Poirier outweighs his ambitions at 145 pounds. UFC matchmaking also plays a crucial role in determining whether Poirier vs Holloway 3 materializes. The UFC often considers fan interest, potential pay-per-view revenue, and the overall landscape of the divisions when making fight bookings. Given the history between Poirier and Holloway, and the guaranteed excitement that a third fight would generate, it's highly likely that the UFC would be keen on making this matchup happen if the circumstances are right. Ultimately, the decision rests on a complex interplay of fighter desires, divisional dynamics, and UFC priorities.

Implications for Their Careers

A Poirier vs Holloway trilogy fight carries significant implications for the careers of both fighters, regardless of the outcome. For Dustin Poirier, a victory over Holloway would further solidify his status as one of the greatest lightweights of all time. It would be a definitive statement in their rivalry, proving that he is the superior fighter and potentially setting him up for another shot at the undisputed lightweight title. A win over Holloway would add another marquee name to his already impressive resume, bolstering his legacy and cementing his place among the elite in the sport. However, a loss to Holloway would be a major setback for Poirier. It would not only even the score in their series but also potentially derail his title aspirations and raise questions about his future in the lightweight division. A loss could force Poirier to re-evaluate his goals and strategies, and he might need to take a different path to get back into title contention.

For Max Holloway, a victory over Poirier would be a career-defining moment. It would avenge his previous two losses, proving that he has evolved and improved as a fighter. It would also silence any doubters who question his ability to compete against top lightweights. A win over Poirier would significantly enhance Holloway's legacy and could potentially open up new opportunities for him, including a potential title shot in the lightweight division. However, a loss to Poirier would be a tough pill to swallow for Holloway. It would mark his third defeat against Poirier, solidifying Poirier's dominance in their rivalry. It could also raise questions about Holloway's ability to compete at lightweight and might push him to focus solely on the featherweight division. The outcome of this fight will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on both fighters' careers, shaping their legacies and influencing their future paths in the UFC.

What to Expect from Poirier vs Holloway 3

If Poirier vs Holloway 3 comes to fruition, fans can expect nothing short of an electrifying and unforgettable battle. Both fighters are known for their incredible striking skills, relentless pressure, and unwavering toughness. Their previous encounters have been wars of attrition, showcasing their ability to absorb punishment and dish it out in equal measure. Poirier is known for his devastating knockout power, precise boxing, and ever-improving grappling game. He possesses a wide array of weapons, including a dangerous left hand, powerful leg kicks, and a submission arsenal that he isn't afraid to use. Poirier's ability to mix his strikes and takedowns makes him a challenging matchup for anyone in the lightweight division. He is also known for his mental fortitude and his ability to perform under pressure, as evidenced by his impressive wins in high-stakes fights.

Holloway, on the other hand, is a master of volume striking, known for his relentless pace and seemingly endless cardio. He throws a high volume of punches and kicks, overwhelming his opponents with his constant pressure. Holloway's ability to string together combinations and his unwavering aggression make him a formidable opponent. He also possesses an iron chin and an incredible ability to absorb punishment, allowing him to stay in the fight even when facing adversity. Holloway's striking defense has also improved significantly over the years, making him a difficult target to hit cleanly. A third fight between Poirier and Holloway would likely be another stand-up war, with both fighters trading heavy blows and pushing each other to their limits. However, the grappling aspect could also play a crucial role, as Poirier has shown the ability to take the fight to the ground and control Holloway. The fight will likely be a test of endurance, skill, and mental toughness, and the winner will be the fighter who can execute their game plan effectively and withstand the pressure.

Conclusion

A trilogy fight between Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway is a dream matchup for MMA fans worldwide. Their history, coupled with their current standing in the sport, makes this a highly anticipated clash. The fight would not only be a thrilling spectacle but also a significant event in the careers of both fighters. Whether it happens in the near future remains to be seen, but the anticipation and excitement surrounding Poirier vs Holloway 3 are undeniable. The potential for another classic battle, with significant implications for their legacies, makes this a matchup that the MMA world is eagerly awaiting.