UFC 318 is becoming a night of high stakes and even higher drama as New Orleans hosts the main event, which has a bit of something for everyone, including the best matchups and nostalgia, legacy, and the BMF belt on the line.
UFC 318 has been updated
In the UFC 318 Headliner, Dustin “Diamond” Poilier, a Louisiana native and perennial fan favorite, steps into the Octagon, which he says will be his final fight. He is facing former featherweight champion and striker machine “blessed” Holloi, this time in the third meeting of the BMF title. It’s a chance for Poirier to go out in front of the crowds of his house with money and bragging rights. For Holloway, it is to solidify his position as one of the most versatile and durable fighters of his time, sending out Poirier with a perhaps not-so-friendly farewell.
In the UFC 318 co-main event, Italy’s most decorated MMA export Marvin Vettori wants to prove that his best days are not behind him. Former title challenger Bettori faces grappling ace Brendan Allen with tricks to finish the fight and some impressive recent win tricks. Betri wants to reestablish himself with pictures of the middleweight title, but Allen is hungry to plunge into the divisional elite.
Brazilian standout Amandari Bas and Tabasaric clash in a strawweight showdown. Known for her infectious energy and balanced skills, Rivas aims to return to competition. Called “Baby Shark,” Rich quietly climbed the rankings with her judo and jiu-jitsu.
In the middleweight division, UFC 318 will see Ikram Alicekarov, a Russian Sambo expert who prefers quick finishes, meets Brazilian knockout artist Bruno “Hulk” Ferreira. Both men are in the habit of ending the fight early, so don’t blink in this.
Veteran Neil Manny, the most prolific welterweight in terms of UFC victory, faces Icelandic Submission Wizard Gunnar Nelson. Manny’s reach and cardio have irritated many people, but Nelson’s grappling is always a threat to take limbs and victory. For Manny, it’s about staying relevant to busy sectors. For Nelson, it’s a shot that comes back towards the top.
Kyler Phillips, an American bantamweight with a flashy style, takes on Brazilian Vinicius Oliveira in five tears, finishing most of his opponents in the first round. Phillips is about to rebound from the loss of a recent decision, but Oliveira wants to keep up the momentum and break into the rankings.
The welterweight scrap between Adam Fugitt and Islam Duratov brings together two fighters to prove something. Fugitt, an American with a finishing instinct, is about to piece together victory in the UFC. Duratov, a German Chechnya prospect and part-time fashion model, is undefeated in the UFC and wants to show that he is more than just a cute face.
Local favourite Carlijudith, who packs punches in the women’s flyweight division, faces Brazil’s Nicole Cagliari. Judith, who is fighting Lafayette, is considering issuing a statement in front of homestate fans. With a solid record and international experience, Caliari has her own plans to ruin the party.
Finally, at UFC 318, the light heavyweight action features Australia’s Jimmy Crute, a relentless pressure fighter, Australia’s Jimmy Crute, a knockout artist with a history of fast finishes against Polish’s Marcin Prachanio. Both are always looking for victory to get back on track and cause a fuss in the fluid division.
For some, UFC 318 is a glorious shot. For others, it’s either a final dance or a chance to break through. Either way, New Orleans is on the show.
