The Ultimate Trilogy: Poirier vs. Holloway

The highly anticipated trilogy between Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway is set to take center stage at UFC 318 in New Orleans. This fight not only marks a significant chapter in their storied rivalry but also features the coveted BMF title on the line. Holloway, who claimed the title with a dramatic knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300, faces Poirier, who has previously bested him in both of their earlier encounters.

Expert Predictions

Leading MMA analysts and former fighters have weighed in with their predictions:

• Rashad Evans (UFC Hall of Famer): Poirier by Decision
• Alan Jouban (ESPN MMA Analyst): Poirier by Decision
• Anthony Smith (ESPN MMA Analyst): Poirier by Decision
• Chael Sonnen (ESPN MMA Analyst): Poirier by Decision
• Din Thomas (MMA Coach): Poirier by Decision

Anthony Smith notes, "Dustin has always had Max's number. His striking is more impactful, and despite Max's skills, I don't see him overpowering Dustin at lightweight."

Din Thomas adds, "Fighting at home gives Dustin an edge. His counterpunching has troubled Max before, and I expect him to win more rounds in a closely contested fight."

Betting Analysis

Ian Parker, ESPN's betting expert, provides his insights:

• Main Event: Over 4.5 rounds. Given the fighters' durability and history, expect a competitive bout that likely goes the distance.

Parker's Best Bets for UFC 318:

• Middleweight: Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov: Kopylov to win (-240). Kopylov's striking and improved takedown defense should give him the edge.
• Featherweight: Dan Ige vs. Patricio Pitbull: Ige to win (-220). Ige's volume and pace will likely overwhelm Pitbull as the fight progresses.
• Middleweight: Marvin Vettori vs. Brendan Allen: Allen to win (-210). Allen's all-around skills and aggression should prevail against Vettori.

PFL Cape Town Highlights

In addition to UFC 318, the PFL Champions Series in Cape Town features several compelling matchups:

• Middleweight Championship: Johnny Eblen vs. Costello van Steenis. Eblen, the undefeated champion, is favored to retain his title.
• Women's Flyweight: Dakota Ditcheva vs. Sumiko Inaba. Ditcheva's world-class striking makes her a strong favorite for a TKO/KO victory.
• Heavyweight: Corey Anderson vs. Denis Goltsov. Anderson's wrestling and cardio could be the key to an upset victory.

Conclusion

UFC 318 promises to be a night of high-stakes action, with the Poirier vs. Holloway trilogy headlining a stacked card. Expert predictions and betting insights provide a comprehensive guide to the night's biggest fights, ensuring fans are well-prepared for the excitement ahead.