UFC Returns to New Orleans with BMF Title on the Line at UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3
Tickets Go on Sale Friday, May 23
NEW ORLEANS, LA – For the first time in a decade, the UFC is bringing its signature energy back to the Big Easy—and it’s doing so with a blockbuster card that promises fireworks from start to finish. UFC® 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3 will take over the Smoothie King Center on Saturday, July 19, headlined by a high-stakes BMF title bout between reigning champion Max Holloway and Louisiana’s own Dustin Poirier, who will make his final walk to the Octagon in his home state.
This will be the third clash between Holloway and Poirier, with the score currently in favor of “The Diamond,” who looks to close the trilogy — and his career — with a definitive victory. The fan-favorite lightweight from Lafayette, Louisiana, has built a storied legacy over nearly 15 years inside the UFC, racking up wins over the likes of Conor McGregor, Michael Chandler, and Justin Gaethje. Now, with the BMF belt and his legacy on the line, Poirier returns home for what could be the perfect swan song.
“For Dustin Poirier to be able to finish his remarkable UFC career in New Orleans is special,” said Peter Dropick, UFC Executive VP of Event Development and Operations. “It’s been 10 years since we’ve held an event here, and we know the fans are ready for us to be back.”
Max Holloway, the BMF champion and one of the most entertaining fighters in UFC history, seeks redemption. After recent highlight-reel wins, including a stunning KO of Justin Gaethje, the former featherweight king looks to defend the BMF title and even the score with Poirier.
In the co-main event, ranked middleweights Marvin Vettori (#10) and Brendan Allen (#11) face off in a crucial clash that could determine a future title contender. Vettori, a veteran of the 185-pound division, is hungry to rebound and re-establish himself in the title picture. Meanwhile, Louisiana native Allen rides a wave of momentum and aims to deliver the performance of his career in front of a home crowd.
Also featured on the UFC 318 card:
- A top-10 strawweight showdown between Amanda Ribas (#7) and Tabatha Ricci (#10)
- A bantamweight battle between dynamic finisher Kyler Phillips and rising Brazilian star Vinicius Oliveira
- Welterweight veterans Neil Magny and Gunnar Nelson face off in a stylistic chess match
- Adam Fugitt vs. Islam Dulatov in a compelling welterweight bout
- A light heavyweight slugfest between Jimmy Crute and Marcin Prachnio
- Middleweight action as Ikram Aliskerov meets Brunno Ferreira
- Local flyweight Carli Judice looks to impress against Nicolle Caliari
The main card airs on ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, with prelims on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, Disney+, and ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, and early prelims kicking off at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT on ESPN+, Disney+, and UFC Fight Pass.
UFC VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, including premium seats, all-inclusive hospitality, and meet-and-greets with UFC Octagon Girls. Visit UFCVIP.com for more info.
The return of UFC to New Orleans is more than just a sporting event—it’s a celebration of Louisiana pride. As Governor Jeff Landry noted, “Hosting a world-class UFC event in New Orleans is… a major economic win for our state.” Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser added, “It’s truly a Cinderella story.”
Tickets for UFC 318 go on sale Friday, May 23. Don’t miss your chance to witness history as Louisiana’s favorite son, Dustin Poirier, closes out a legendary career in front of his home fans.
For more updates and full fight card details, visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are subject to change.
