Where to watch UFC 318 live: Holloway vs. Poirier 3 this Saturday in New Orleans USA

This Saturday, July 19, 2025, New Orleans hosts UFC 318, a thrilling event featuring the main event between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier, marking their third encounter in the lightweight division. The night promises excitement at the Smoothie King Center, with the main card starting at 10 p.m. (Brasília time). The fight is special: Poirier announced it will be his last in the octagon, closing a 15-year career. The event will be broadcast live on specific platforms, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment. The historic rivalry between the fighters and Poirier’s farewell heighten expectations for a memorable clash.

The main event pits Holloway, the current BMF belt holder, against Poirier, who aims to end his career with a victory. The event also features high-stakes fights, such as Paulo Borrachinha against Roman Kopylov in the co-main event. The live broadcast will be available via ESPN+ for subscribers, with streaming options for different audiences. UFC 318 is a milestone, blending nostalgia and action in a night set to make MMA history.

• Key fights on the card:
  • Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier (lightweight, main event).
  • Paulo Borrachinha vs. Roman Kopylov (middleweight, co-main event).
  • Kevin Holland vs. Daniel Rodriguez (welterweight).

What to expect from Holloway vs. Poirier

Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier have faced off twice before, splitting victories. In 2012, Poirier won by submission; in 2019, Holloway took the win by unanimous decision. Now, at UFC 318, the fight will settle the score. Holloway, with a 26-8-0 record, is known for his durability and striking volume, while Poirier, with 30-9-0, combines technique and heart. The fight is for the BMF belt, a symbolic title that boosts the winner’s prestige.

Poirier, at 36, announced he will retire after the bout, adding emotional weight to the event. He promised to leave it all in the octagon in his hometown of New Orleans. Holloway aims to solidify his status as one of the greatest lightweights. Analysts suggest the fight could hinge on strategy: Holloway’s relentless pace versus Poirier’s precision and experience.

• Factors that could decide the fight:
  • Holloway’s endurance against Poirier’s power.
  • Emotional impact of Poirier’s retirement.
  • Tactical adjustments over five rounds.
  • Local crowd support for Poirier in New Orleans.

How to watch UFC 318 live

UFC 318 will be broadcast exclusively on ESPN+ in the United States, with accessible options for Brazilian fans via streaming. In Brazil, the Combate platform is the main way to watch the event live, with packages including the main card and prelims. The broadcast starts at 7 p.m. (Brasília time) for early prelims, with the main card at 10 p.m. Other platforms, like UFC Fight Pass, offer additional content, such as interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.

For those seeking free options, some streaming platforms, like DirecTV and FuboTV, offer trial periods that may include the event, though availability in Brazil should be checked. Additionally, bars and restaurants in major Brazilian cities, such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, often screen the fights on big screens, creating a lively atmosphere for fans.

• Broadcast options in Brazil:
  • Combate: Monthly subscription or PPV package.
  • UFC Fight Pass: Additional content and archived fights.
  • Bars and restaurants: Check venues with live broadcasts.

Highlights of the main card and prelims

Beyond the main event, UFC 318 features fights that promise to electrify New Orleans. The co-main event between Paulo Borrachinha and Roman Kopylov is a middleweight clash that could bring the winner closer to a title shot. Borrachinha, with his aggressive style, faces Kopylov, who comes off impressive victories. Another anticipated bout is Kevin Holland versus Daniel Rodriguez, a welterweight fight blending technique and charisma.

The prelims also shine, with Dan Ige facing Patricio Pitbull in a featherweight bout that could steal the show with intense striking. Michael Johnson takes on Daniel Zellhuber in the lightweight division, pitting experience against youth. The prelim card starts at 7 p.m., ensuring hours of action for fans.

• Must-watch fights at UFC 318:
  • Paulo Borrachinha vs. Roman Kopylov: Explosive middleweight bout.
  • Kevin Holland vs. Daniel Rodriguez: Technique and entertainment.
  • Dan Ige vs. Patricio Pitbull: Striking in the featherweight division.
  • Michael Johnson vs. Daniel Zellhuber: Veteran vs. newcomer.

History and legacy of Holloway and Poirier

Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier are legendary figures in the UFC. Holloway, a former featherweight champion, is known for his ability to absorb punishment and maintain a blistering pace. He holds records for significant strikes in a single fight and is a fan favorite for his fearless style. Poirier has built a career marked by wins over names like Conor McGregor and Eddie Alvarez, plus his philanthropy outside the octagon.

Their rivalry began 13 years ago, and UFC 318 marks the final chapter. The fight is not just about the BMF belt but about the legacy of two fighters who shaped modern MMA. Poirier’s farewell in his hometown adds a nostalgic tone, while Holloway aims to cement his place among the all-time greats.

• Key moments in Poirier’s career:
  • Knockout win over Conor McGregor in 2021.
  • Interim lightweight title win in 2019.
  • Work with the Good Fight Foundation, supporting communities.

New Orleans’ role in UFC 318

New Orleans is a special stage for UFC 318, especially as Dustin Poirier’s hometown. The local crowd is expected to pack the Smoothie King Center, creating a unique atmosphere. UFC events in the city always draw large crowds, and Poirier’s farewell amplifies the excitement. The event also boosts the local economy, with bars, hotels, and restaurants preparing to welcome fans from around the world.

The presence of charismatic fighters like Borrachinha and Holland ensures the event is more than just a night of fights. The city, known for its vibrant culture, is the perfect backdrop for a spectacle blending sport and entertainment.

• Why New Orleans matters:
  • Hometown of Dustin Poirier, with massive crowd support.
  • Smoothie King Center, a venue for major UFC events.
  • Economic boost from fans and tourists.

Fighter preparation and strategies

Holloway and Poirier underwent intense training camps for UFC 318. Holloway focused on cardiovascular endurance and striking, knowing Poirier is dangerous in submissions. Poirier worked on takedown defense and power, aiming to capitalize on any mistake by Holloway. Both shared glimpses of their preparation on social media, exuding confidence.

Other card fighters, like Borrachinha, also stood out. The Brazilian intensified his wrestling training to counter Kopylov’s versatility. Kevin Holland, known for his trash talk, promised a show inside and outside the octagon. Mental preparation is also key, especially for Poirier, facing his final fight.

• Preparation details:
  • Holloway: Focus on strike volume and endurance.
  • Poirier: Training for submissions and power.
  • Borrachinha: Wrestling to neutralize Kopylov.
  • Holland: Striking strategy and taunts.

Fan and analyst expectations

The MMA community is split on the outcome of Holloway vs. Poirier 3. Holloway’s fans highlight his ability to maintain pace over five rounds, while Poirier’s supporters believe his experience and retirement motivation could be decisive. Analysts predict the fight may go to a judges’ decision due to their technical balance.

Social media is buzzing with discussions, with hashtags like #UFC318 and #HollowayVsPoirier trending. The presence of other high-profile fights, like Borrachinha vs. Kopylov, fuels the excitement. Expectations are high for a night of knockouts and historic moments.

• Predictions for UFC 318:
  • Holloway favored for his endurance and volume.
  • Poirier could surprise with a knockout or submission.
  • Borrachinha vs. Kopylov with strong knockout potential.
  • Holland may steal the show with a charismatic performance.