UFC’s 6-year-old ‘gimmick’ could end after Dustin Poirier retirement according to Daniel Cormier 

UFC veteran shows concerns over the future of the BMF title with Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway fighting for it next.

UFC’s 6-year-old ‘gimmick’ could end after Dustin Poirier retirement according to Daniel Cormier 

Daniel Cormier warns Dana White about Dustin Poirier's potential BMF win (via Imago)

Former UFC interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier will return to have his last dance against Max Holloway at UFC 318. The BMF belt gimmick has become a sort of fan-service, aiming to entertain the fan base with electrifying battles. 2023, 2024, and now 2025 will have an annual BMF battle. However, UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier has some bad news for people expecting a 2026 BMF title fight.

The BMF belt is currently being held by Holloway, who captured it by defeating Justin Gaethje last year at UFC 300. Since then, he lost a featherweight title shot but retained the symbolic BMF title, which remains active despite that championship loss. Holloway now hopes to defend the BMF title, and avenge previous losses to Poirier. However, DC believes that if Poirier wins, it could end the BMF championship lineage.

There is a certain section of the mixed martial arts community that thinks the BMF title is only a gimmick… and it needs to be done away with. Hey, BMF title gets defended in New Orleans. Dustin Poirier wins the BMF title and walks away, title goes out the door with him… That’s the danger.

Daniel Cormier via The Good Guy/ Bad Guy Show 

The UFC BMF title was introduced in 2019 as a one-time belt symbolizing toughness, grit, and fan-favorite fighting spirit. It was created for a special fight between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal at UFC 244 in Madison Square Garden, New York. Masvidal won the inaugural BMF belt after a doctor’s stoppage due to cuts on Diaz’s face in the third round.

Later, Poirier and Gaethje fought for it at UFC 291 after Masvidal retired in early 2023. At UFC 291, DP got floored by the ‘Highlight’ in the second round via a brutal head-kick. But Gaethje couldn’t hold on to it, losing it to Holloway via a brutal knockout loss. Now, Poirier has the opportunity to fight for it once again and finish his professional career at a high. 

UFC veteran doesn’t get the hype around the BMF belt 

The BMF belt is frequently criticized for being promotional and pointless due to its lack of legitimate rankings or title defenses. Some analysts argue that it undermines the merit-based structure for traditional UFC title routes by diverting attention. For instance, only strikers will likely fight for the BMF belt. A whole variety of fighters will never fight for it due to having grappling heavy styles.

The significance of the UFC BMF title
The significance of the UFC BMF title (via MMA Fighting)

As it started as a one-time title, the UFC and Dana White didn’t plan it further, which has created some doubts. Former UFC champion Rampage Jackson recently talked about the belt and shared his concerns. He also asked some important questions regarding the belt and its holder. 

I really don’t understand what’s the significance of it is but I think it’s good for entertainment and you can be BMF champion. Can you be BMF champ and champ at the same time?

Rampage Jackson via The Jaxxon Podcast 

Nevertheless, every BMF title fight so far has delivered incredible action and excitement that the MMA community has thoroughly enjoyed. Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway are both respected warriors, known for their durability, skill, and willingness to engage in bloody wars. Now, the question remains whether the ‘Diamond’ can retire triumphantly, ridding the BMF title away from the UFC forever.

Dustin Poirier’s career highlights 

Dustin Poirier started his UFC journey in 2011, quickly rising through the ranks, fighting some of the biggest names in MMA history. He’s faced legendary opponents like Justin Gaethje, Dan Hooker, and Islam Makhachev in unforgettable wars that tested his warrior spirit. Poirier’s 2019 interim title win against Max Holloway showcased championship composure and potential to become an all-time great.

Dustin Poirier's UFC legacy
Dustin Poirier’s UFC legacy (via X)

Wins over Conor McGregor further boosted his popularity, cementing him as a fan favorite known for rawness and heart. Given his achievements, Poirier is often regarded as the best fighter in the UFC to not win the championship belt. 

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