Dustin Poirier has confessed to finding it difficult to adapt to a life away from professional fighting since his retirement this summer.
The former interim UFC lightweight champion concluded his career in July, suffering a loss to Max Holloway for the BMF title at UFC 318, an event held in his native Louisiana. He had contemplated retirement following his previous undisputed title challenge against Islam Makhachev but chose instead to have a final fight in his hometown.
Currently, Poirier is embracing a quieter existence with his wife, Jolie, and their daughter, Tatiana. The couple is also anticipating the arrival of a son later this year. Despite stepping away from active competition, Poirier remains active, making public appearances such as TV commentary and autograph events.
Dustin Poirier Admits He Is Struggling with Life After the UFC
In his post-fighting period, Dustin Poirier has been active on social media, interacting with fans, answering questions, and engaging in lighthearted exchanges. He notably dismissed the idea of a boxing match with Nate Diaz in an amusing manner.
When a fan inquired about his adjustment to post-fighting life, Poirier conceded that it was more challenging than he publicly portrays. After one fan expressed, “Hey @DustinPoirier I’ll miss seeing you fighting, I started watching MMA with you man, you’re a legend.,” Poirier responded, “Let ’em know.”
Another fan then asked how deeply he missed the sport, to which he offered a poignant reply:
“Everyday, the moment my eyes open, I’ve done it for two decades dedicated my life to it…. A part of me has died.”
Dustin Poirier’s Retirement Fight Was a Disappointing Trilogy
UFC 318`s main event was a unique occasion, with the promotion traveling to New Orleans, Louisiana, Poirier`s home state, to orchestrate a special farewell for a fighter. Max Holloway was specifically chosen, having lost their two prior encounters, and the duo once again competed for five rounds.
Nevertheless, the outcome this time favored Holloway, whose superior activity, youthful vigor, quicker hand speed, and relentless pressure ultimately secured him the victory he had long sought.
They contended for Holloway`s BMF title, a belt he had claimed from Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 over a year earlier. While the title was not at stake during his knockout loss to Ilia Topuria, it was reinstated for his fight against Poirier.
