Dustin Poirier, a veteran in the MMA scene, is gearing up for his final fight at UFC 318 in New Orleans. His upcoming bout against Max Holloway is not just any fight; it’s a chance for Poirier to capture the coveted BMF title in a highly anticipated trilogy match. Poirier, known for his old-school approach, is advocating for significant rule changes reminiscent of the days of PRIDE FC.
During his appearance on “The Ariel Helwani Show,” Poirier expressed his desire for a 10-minute first round and a unique judging system that evaluates the fight as a whole rather than round-by-round. He envisions a scenario where judges decide based on which fighter they see walking out of the Octagon, bringing back elements from the past that added excitement and unpredictability to the sport.
The PRIDE promotion in Japan was known for its innovative two-round format, a concept that Poirier finds appealing and wants to incorporate into the current MMA landscape. While the traditional three-round structure dominates the sport, Poirier’s proposal hints at a potential shift towards more unconventional formats that challenge fighters and entertain fans in new ways.
Poirier’s vision extends beyond his own fight; he advocates for the BMF title bouts to adopt the 10-minute first round rule, emphasizing the importance of judging fights holistically and allowing techniques like soccer kicks, a move that could bring a fresh dynamic to the octagon and test fighters in different ways.
As Poirier prepares for his final showdown, the stakes are high, with the BMF title adding an extra layer of significance to the event. While Poirier aims to secure victory and redeem himself after a tough loss, the historical context of the BMF title’s inception adds to the narrative, originally conceived as a one-time spectacle that has now evolved into a recurring feature in UFC matchups.
The prospect of Poirier becoming the last BMF titleholder holds sentimental value, marking a significant chapter in both his career and the history of UFC fights. His desire to retire on a high note, maintaining his record of never losing two fights in a row, underscores the personal importance he attaches to this upcoming battle and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.
With the MMA landscape constantly evolving, Poirier’s proposal for rule changes and unique formats reflects a broader trend in the industry towards innovation and experimentation. As fighters seek to push boundaries and create memorable moments in the octagon, the incorporation of elements from the past adds a nostalgic touch while paving the way for a future where unpredictability and excitement reign supreme.