The keyword “Poirier vs Holloway” is searched by MMA fans who want one clear thing: who is better, what happened before, and what might happen next.
This rivalry is one of the most exciting in UFC history because it mixes skill, heart, and evolution.
Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway have fought multiple times, but each fight told a very different story.
Fans search this matchup to understand the results, timeline, and style differences. Some are confused about who won which fight. Others want to know how both fighters changed over time.
Many new fans hear about the rivalry and want a quick, simple explanation without watching hours of footage.
This article solves that confusion. You’ll get a quick answer, full rivalry history, style comparison, common myths, real-life examples, trends, and expert advice all in simple language.
If you are a casual UFC viewer, a hardcore MMA fan, or a sports blogger, this guide gives you everything you need to understand Poirier vs Holloway clearly and confidently.
Poirier vs Holloway Quick Answer
Dustin Poirier leads the rivalry 2–0 against Max Holloway.
- 2012 (UFC 143): Poirier defeated Holloway by submission
- 2019 (UFC 236): Poirier defeated Holloway by unanimous decision
Both fights were competitive, but Poirier’s power and experience made the difference. Holloway showed heart and volume striking, but Poirier’s timing and damage won the judges.
The Origin of Poirier vs Holloway
The Poirier vs Holloway rivalry began in 2012 when both fighters were young and hungry. Max Holloway made his UFC debut on short notice. Dustin Poirier was already a rising featherweight contender.
Their paths crossed again in 2019 for the interim lightweight title. By then, both fighters had evolved into elite stars. This rematch wasn’t just about winning it was about legacy.
The rivalry exists because:
- Both fighters came up through featherweight
- Both are known for toughness and high fight IQ
- Their styles clash in exciting ways
Poirier vs Holloway Fighting Style Comparison
| Aspect | Dustin Poirier | Max Holloway |
| Style | Boxer-wrestler | Volume striker |
| Power | Heavy hands | High output |
| Defense | Solid guard | Elite movement |
| Cardio | Very strong | Exceptional |
| Best Weapon | Left hook | Combination striking |
Key difference:
Poirier relies on power and timing, while Holloway relies on pace and pressure.
Which Fighter Has the Advantage?
- For short, explosive fights: Poirier
- For long, high-volume fights: Holloway
- At lightweight: Poirier
- At featherweight: More competitive, but still Poirier historically
If you’re betting or analyzing, weight class and damage output matter most.
Common Mistakes About Poirier vs Holloway
❌ “Holloway dominated Poirier”
✅ False. Poirier won both fights clearly.
❌ “They only fought once”
✅ Incorrect. They fought twice.
❌ “Holloway was in his prime in 2012”
✅ No. He was only 20 years old.
Poirier vs Holloway in Everyday Examples
- Sports News: “Poirier vs Holloway remains one of UFC’s best rivalries.”
- Social Media: “Who wins a trilogy? #PoirierVsHolloway”
- Podcast Talk: “That second Poirier vs Holloway fight was a war.”
- Formal Writing: “The Poirier vs Holloway rivalry highlights fighter evolution.”
Poirier vs Holloway Google Trends & Usage Data
The keyword “Poirier vs Holloway” spikes:
- During UFC fight weeks
- When rematch rumors start
- After title fight announcements
Top search regions:
- United States
- Canada
- UK
- Australia
Fans mostly search it for results, predictions, and fight history.
Keyword Variations Comparison Table
| Keyword Variation | Search Intent |
| Poirier vs Holloway | Fight history |
| Holloway vs Poirier | Results |
| Poirier Holloway fight | Video highlights |
| Poirier vs Holloway 3 | Trilogy rumors |
FAQs Poirier vs Holloway
1. Who won Poirier vs Holloway?
Dustin Poirier won both fights.
2. How many times did they fight?
Two times.
3. Was the 2019 fight close?
Competitive, but Poirier won clearly.
4. Will there be a trilogy fight?
Possible, but not confirmed.
5. Which fight was better?
The 2019 fight was more exciting.
6. Did Holloway ever knock down Poirier?
Yes, but Poirier recovered well.
7. Who hits harder?
Dustin Poirier.
Conclusion
The Poirier vs Holloway rivalry is a perfect example of elite MMA competition. It shows how fighters grow, adapt, and test their limits.
While Max Holloway is one of the greatest volume strikers ever, Dustin Poirier has consistently had the right tools to beat him power, timing, and experience.
If you want a quick answer, Poirier leads 2–0. If you want deeper insight, the story is about evolution and styles.
Holloway brings pace and pressure. Poirier brings damage and precision. That contrast is why fans keep talking about this matchup.
For fans, writers, and analysts, understanding Poirier vs Holloway helps you understand modern UFC at its best.
If a trilogy happens or not, this rivalry is already legendary.

I am Victor Stone, a passionate learner and content creator at Grammexa.com, where language meets clarity.
I am dedicated to simplifying confusing words, grammar rules, and “vs” comparisons for modern readers.
I am here to make English easy, accurate, and trending one explanation at a time.