UFC 318 Paths to Victory: Can Dustin Poirier win the trilogy against Max Holloway for a fairytale ending?

As UFC 318 draws near, the mixed martial arts world braces for a trilogy bout that promises to etch itself into the annals of combat sports history. Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway, two titans of the sport, are set to collide for the third time, with immense stakes on the line. For Poirier, in particular, this fight represents more than just a victory; it’s a shot at a definitive, fairytale ending to one of the most compelling rivalries in UFC history, a chance to solidify his legacy against a man who has consistently pushed him to his limits. The narrative for "The Diamond" is clear: overcome a formidable, ever-evolving opponent and close this chapter on his terms.

Dustin Poirier’s path to victory at UFC 318 hinges heavily on his superior boxing and devastating power. In their previous encounters, Poirier found success by landing the cleaner, more impactful shots, particularly his left hand. To secure the trilogy, he must leverage his southpaw advantage, control the center of the octagon, and consistently land his crisp combinations. A key strategy will be to target Holloway's body early, slowing down the Hawaiian's relentless pace and draining his legendary cardio. Poirier’s underrated grappling, though rarely seen, could also be a crucial disruptor. Even a few takedown attempts, regardless of success, could force Holloway to defend, creating openings for Poirier’s striking and preventing Holloway from settling into his rhythm. Maintaining composure under Holloway’s volume and capitalizing on counters will be paramount for "The Diamond" to earn the decisive win.

Conversely, Max Holloway’s route to victory lies in his unparalleled volume, relentless pace, and iron chin. "Blessed" thrives on overwhelming his opponents with an almost inhuman output, picking them apart with diverse striking angles and combinations. For Holloway to win the trilogy, he must push the pace from the opening bell, forcing Poirier to fight off his back foot and expend energy defensively. His ability to absorb punishment and continue firing back is a unique weapon that can demoralize even the most durable fighters. Holloway's feints, footwork, and exceptional ability to read his opponents will be critical in setting up his barrages. He needs to avoid Poirier’s power shots, stay out of range of the dangerous left hand, and systematically break Poirier down round by round, aiming for a late-round stoppage or a dominant decision victory. The longer the fight goes, the more it favors Holloway’s conditioning and ability to find his rhythm.

This third encounter is a testament to the enduring greatness of both fighters. For Poirier, it’s about proving he can once again solve the Holloway puzzle, not just with power, but with strategic precision and unwavering grit. For Holloway, it's about demonstrating his evolution since their last meeting, showcasing why he's considered one of the sport's pound-for-pound best. As Saturday approaches, the tension is palpable, and the stakes couldn't be higher for Dustin Poirier's quest for that elusive, perfect ending.