Prelims Provide Thrilling Lead-up to UFC 318 Main Event

Max Holloway, born on December 4, 1991, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a renowned professional mixed martial artist. He is of Native Hawaiian and Samoan ancestry and grew up in Waianae, a tough neighborhood known for its street fighting culture. Holloway began his martial arts journey with kickboxing during his high school years and later transitioned to mixed martial arts. Holloway's professional career in MMA started at a young age, joining the UFC in 2012 at just 20 years old. He quickly gained recognition for his dynamic striking and ability to adapt to different fighting styles. One of his most notable achievements was becoming the UFC Featherweight Champion by defeating José Aldo in June 2017. Holloway successfully defended his title multiple times, including victories over Aldo again and Brian Ortega. He also holds records for the most strikes landed in a UFC fight. Beyond his achievements in the featherweight division, Holloway has also competed in the lightweight category. Although he lost to Dustin Poirier in a bid for the interim Lightweight Championship in 2019, he remains a formidable opponent. Recently, Holloway's career has been marked by significant performances, including a notable win at UFC 318, where he defeated Dustin Poirier in what was Poirier's final fight. Holloway's legacy in MMA is defined by his resilience and determination, inspiring aspiring fighters with his story of overcoming adversity to achieve success in the sport. Currently, Holloway continues to be an active and influential figure in the MMA world, known for his relentless pressure and technical prowess in the octagon. His nickname, "Blessed," reflects his ability to thrive under pressure and his deep connection to his Hawaiian roots. Holloway's impact on the sport extends beyond his achievements, as he embodies the spirit of perseverance and hard work, inspiring fans and fellow fighters alike.

Dustin Glenn Poirier (born January 19, 1989) is a retired American professional mixed martial artist renowned for competing in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is widely regarded as one of the greatest lightweights in MMA history. Over his career, Poirier held the Interim UFC Lightweight Championship and challenged three times for the undisputed UFC Lightweight title. He also vied twice for the UFC’s BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title. Poirier shares the record for the most knockout or technical knockout wins in the UFC lightweight division, tied with Drew Dober. Born and raised in Lafayette, Louisiana, Poirier is of Cajun descent. He began his professional MMA career in 2009, rapidly accumulating an undefeated 7–0 record in regional promotions primarily located in Louisiana and the southern United States. His early career is featured in the documentary *Fightville*. Poirier debuted in World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) in 2010 before transitioning to the UFC following the WEC-UFC merger. Throughout his UFC tenure, Poirier compiled a professional record of 30 wins and 10 losses, achieving 15 wins by knockout and 8 by submission. Known by the nickname "The Diamond," he fought with a southpaw stance and trained with American Top Team. Poirier’s technical skill, resilience, and exciting fighting style earned him immense popularity and respect within the MMA community. Poirier officially retired after UFC 318 in 2023, concluding a distinguished career marked by high-profile bouts against top contenders such as Conor McGregor and Islam Makhachev. His legacy includes not only his in-cage achievements but also philanthropic efforts outside the octagon. As of 2025, Poirier remains a celebrated figure in mixed martial arts, with a strong likelihood of future UFC Hall of Fame induction[1][5][6].