UFC 318 Fight Card Preview: Holloway vs Poirier 3 Headlines Action-Packed Night

UFC returns to New Orleans after a decade with UFC 318, taking place at the Smoothie King Center on Saturday. The highly anticipated event features a BMF title showdown in the main event: a trilogy clash between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier.

This UFC 318 fight card is stacked with thrilling matchups, rising prospects, and divisional shake-ups, promising an unforgettable night of action for MMA fans.

Main Event: Max Holloway vs Dustin Poirier 3 (BMF Title Fight)

In a historic third encounter, Max Holloway defends his BMF belt against Louisiana’s own Dustin Poirier. Poirier holds two previous victories over Holloway, including a unanimous decision win at UFC 236. However, Holloway captured the BMF crown with a stunning KO over Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 and looks to settle the score.

For Poirier, this could be his final Octagon appearance, making this battle even more emotional for fans in his home state.

Co-Main Event: Paulo Costa vs Roman Kopylov Preview

Former title challenger Paulo Costa looks to snap his skid against rising Russian middleweight Roman Kopylov. While Costa needs a win to stay relevant in the rankings, Kopylov eyes a breakthrough into the Top 15 with his aggressive style and recent win streak.

Kevin Holland vs Daniel Rodriguez Preview

Fan-favorites and welterweight strikers collide as Kevin Holland takes on Daniel Rodriguez. Holland is coming off back-to-back dominant wins, while Rodriguez aims for his third straight victory in a clash that promises nonstop action.

Dan Ige vs Patricio Pitbull Preview

Featherweight contender Dan Ige welcomes Bellator legend Patricio Pitbull in a gritty, must-win fight for both. Ige is known for his toughness, while Pitbull looks to bounce back from his UFC debut loss and prove he still belongs among the elite.

Michael Johnson vs Daniel Zellhuber Preview

Veteran Michael Johnson faces promising lightweight Daniel Zellhuber in the main card opener. Johnson is riding a mini-comeback, while Zellhuber looks to rebound from a close loss and showcase his striking talent.