UFC 318 Recap: Full Results, Highlights, and Key Takeaways

The Smoothie King Centre in New Orleans became a hotbed of emotion and action on July 19, 2025. The night started with early prelims before building into a huge finale. UFC 318 didn’t only have fights; it also gave fans closure, redemption, and experiences they won’t soon forget. Here’s your full UFC 318 results breakdown, including the main card, prelim highlights, fight bonuses, and a look at what comes next for some of the biggest names on the roster.

Holloway vs Poirier 3 Ends in Redemption and Retirement

Max Holloway managed to keep his BMF title and completed their trilogy after defeating Dustin Poirier by unanimous decision (49–46, 49–46, 48–47) in the eagerly awaited main event of UFC 318. Poirier was knocked down early in the first round by Holloway, who entered the fight fast and landed over 200 significant strikes. In round two, Poirier put up a fierce fight, landing hard blows and even locked in a guillotine, but Holloway’s constant volume and pressure eventually wore him down.

Both guys traded in the middle of the Octagon during the fifth round, which turned into a full blown battle. A spectacular career came to an end when Holloway raised his hands and Poirier placed his gloves on the mat as the last bell rang. Fans and fighters honoured “The Diamond,” who retires with a 30-10 record and a reputation as one of the UFC’s most beloved fighters, in an emotional moment.

Paulo Costa Returns to Form

In the UFC 318 co-main event, Paulo Costa snapped a three-fight losing streak by earning a unanimous decision win over Roman Kopylov. Costa controlled the pace and distance with powerful leg kicks and crisp combinations. Judges scored it 30–27, 30–27, and 29–28. With this victory, Costa reestablished himself in the middleweight division and called out Khamzat Chimaev in the post-fight interview, setting the stage for a potential fan-favorite clash.

Daniel Rodriguez Shocks Kevin Holland

Veteran welterweight Daniel Rodriguez defeated Kevin Holland by unanimous decision (29–28 x3), causing a major upset. Rodriguez countered Holland’s reach and awkward technique with boxing and pressure. With the victory, which is his third consecutive victory, he may soon be ranked in the Top 15. Holland, meanwhile, might need to reconsider his present course in the packed division after struggling to impose his game plan.

Patricio Pitbull Controls Dan Ige

Bellator crossover Patricio “Pitbull” Freire made a big splash in the UFC featherweight division by beating Dan Ige by unanimous decision (29–28 x3). Most of the fight, Ige was on the defensive because of Pitbull’s grappling, top control, and constant pressure. The former Bellator champion’s win wasn’t flashy, but it was a statement win that demonstrated he belongs among the best in the UFC.

Michael Johnson Outpoints Zellhuber in Veteran Showcase

Michael Johnson, who is 39 years old at the time, managed to turn back the clock by defeating rising prospect Daniel Zellhuber by way of a split decision. Zellhuber had a difficult time keeping up with Johnson’s hand speed and movement throughout the entire fight. Despite the fact that Zellhuber had his moments, Johnson’s experience and accuracy were the difference that sealed the deal. It is clear that Johnson still has a lot of gas left in his tank and that he is capable of competing with younger competitors.

Full UFC 318 Fight Card Results

Main Card (ESPN+ PPV):

• Max Holloway def. Dustin Poirier via UD (49–46, 49–46, 48–47)

• Paulo Costa def. Roman Kopylov via UD (30–27, 30–27, 29–28)

• Daniel Rodriguez def. Kevin Holland via UD (29–28 x3)

• Patricio Freire def. Dan Ige via UD (29–28 x3)

• Michael Johnson def. Daniel Zellhuber via UD (29-28 x3)

Prelims (ESPN / ESPN+):

• Brendan Allen def. Marvin Vettori via UD

• Vinicius Oliveira def. Kyler Phillips via UD

•  Nikolay Veretennikov def. Francisco Prado via SD

• Ateba Gautier def. Robert Valentin via TKO (Round 1)

Early Prelims:

• Carli Judice def. Gabriella Fernandes via TKO (Round 3)

• Brunno Ferreira def. Jackson McVey via submission (Round 1)

• Ryan Spann def. Lukasz Brzeski via submission (Round 1)

• Jimmy Crute def. Marcin Prachnio via submission (Round 1)

• Islam Dulatov def. Adam Fugitt via KO (Round 1)

The Fight Of The Night was named Branden Allen vs. Marvin Vettori and alongside that Carli Judice, Islam Dulatov and Ateba Gautier received the performance of the night. These bonuses reflect the true potential of the UFC’s undercard where new stars are continuously emerging and veterans keep on proving why they still belong to the organisation

Poirier’s Retirement and Legacy

The retirement of Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 served as the event’s emotional focal point. Through nearly twenty years of being involved with the sport, he was able to leave with his head held high. Poirier leaves behind a resume that is worthy of being inducted into the Hall of Fame. He is renowned for his tenacity, sportsmanship, and entertaining encounters with opponents such as Gaethje, McGregor, and Holloway. Online honours were given to him by competitors from all around the MMA world, including Jon Jones, Jorge Masvidal, and Rafael dos Anjos, who mentioned him as one of the greatest fighters who had never won undisputed gold.

What’s Next for Max Holloway?

Max Holloway has shown that he is far from finished. With victories over Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, “Blessed” is prepared to go for another run at the lightweight crown. Possible future fights may include a rematch with featherweight champion Ilia Topuria or a fight amongst the top contenders at 155. Holloway proved once again that he’s a problem for both divisions, proving that he’s far more than simply just a fan favourite.

Conclusion

UFC 318 was an experience unlike any other. Fighters rewrote their legacies, fans witnessed a beautiful farewell, and first-round finishes. This was one of the year’s most balanced cards, thanks to Max Holloway’s outstanding performance and Poirier’s final bow.

No matter how you felt about the fight card, UFC 318 had everything, from the main event’s emotional rollercoaster to the early prelim madness. The UFC scene has just become even more intriguing—again.