UFC 318 delivers drama, legends, new blood

UFC 318 shook New Orleans on July 19, delivering high drama and poignant farewells. Max Holloway defended his BMF belt by defeating Dustin Poirier in their trilogy finale, ending Poirier’s legendary career. But the night also spotlighted future stars — Islam Dulatov knocked out his opponent in his UFC debut MMAmania.com+8Wikipedia+8Cageside Press+8 Wikipedia+12MMAmania.com+12BILD+12 MMAmania.com+6AP News+6ESPN.com+6 Yahoo Esportes+4MMAmania.com+4Cageside Press+4 BILD Sportaran+4MMAmania.com+4Wikipedia+4.

Holloway vs. Poirier: Trilogy Closes

In the main event, Holloway dropped Poirier early, maintained relentless pressure, and earned a unanimous decision — two judges scored 49‑46, one 48‑47 MMAmania.com+3MMAmania.com+3MMA Fighting+3. Poirier closed his career with grace and respect in a five-round war MMA Fighting ESPN.com.

Dana White admitted the fight felt closer live than the final scores reflected MMAmania.com. Holloway now sets his sights on lightweight contenders.

Breakout Performances on the Rise

UFC newcomers stood out:

Islam Dulatov delivered a brutal first-round knockout in just over four minutes BILD Sportaran.
Ateba Gautier earned a quick TKO striking under a minute Sportaran+4MMA Fighting+4MMAmania.com+4.
Carli Judice, Jimmy Crute, Ryan Spann, and Brunno Ferreira also secured exciting early finishes Cageside Press+4Sportaran+4MMAmania.com+4.

Bonuses and Night Highlights

Brendan Allen vs. Marvin Vettori earned Fight of the Night, while Dulatov, Gautier, and Judice picked up Performance of the Night bonuses — each awarded US$ 50,000 MMAmania.com Cageside Press.

What’s Next?

With Poirier’s departure, Holloway eyes the lightweight division and possible title shots AP News MMAmania.com. Meanwhile, breakout athletes like Dulatov and Judice are set to electrify UFC 319, scheduled for August