Dustin Poirier pitched BMF tournament to Dana White: “BMF Tournament”
Dustin Poirier pitched a BMF tournament idea to Dana White featuring Holloway, Gaethje, and Hooker. White rejected it due to regulation issues.
Dustin Poirier’s ambitious BMF tournament idea
Dustin Poirier recently revealed that he proposed an exciting idea to UFC President Dana White: a BMF tournament featuring himself, Max Holloway, Justin Gaethje, and Dan Hooker. The former interim lightweight champion wanted all four fighters to compete for the BMF belt on the same night, in a one-night tournament format.
In an interview with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour, Poirier said:
“I was on Dana’s office maybe six-seven months ago, maybe even longer, and I pitched the idea of a BMF tournament. I pitched me, Gaethje, Max, and Hooker.”
Poirier’s vision aimed to bring back the raw, chaotic spirit of old-school MMA tournaments, where fighters would compete multiple times in a single night. His focus was to crown the true Baddest Motherf***er in a high-stakes, action-packed event.
Why Dana White rejected the BMF tournament
Although intrigued by the concept, Dana White ultimately rejected Poirier’s proposal. Initially, White thought Poirier meant a tournament spread over several months. When Poirier clarified he wanted it all in one night, White immediately shut it down due to regulation and safety concerns.
Poirier explained:
“I wanted a tournament in one night. But he said nobody would sanction that.”
According to current athletic commission rules in the United States, fighters are not allowed to compete in multiple bouts on the same night due to health risks, especially regarding concussion protocols and medical clearances. Even earlier UFC events, such as the original tournaments in the 1990s, faced criticism for this reason, leading to stricter regulations today.
While White appreciated the ambition, he emphasized that no major commission would approve a one-night tournament in modern MMA.
“The Last Dance” at UFC 318: Poirier vs. Holloway III
Despite the BMF tournament being scrapped, fans will witness a historic clash as Poirier faces Max Holloway for the third time at UFC 318, scheduled for July 19, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.
This bout will be Poirier’s final fight before retiring, making it an emotional and significant event for the former interim champion. Their previous meetings saw Poirier winning twice, including a memorable five-round war at UFC 236 in 2019.
The stakes are even higher this time: the BMF title will be on the line. Holloway captured the BMF belt by defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 300, knocking him out with just one second remaining in an instant classic.
“Fighting Max again, for the BMF belt, and doing it in Louisiana… it’s the perfect way to end it,” Poirier told Ariel Helwani.
The event is expected to start at 7 PM local time (CDT), which is 02:00 AM CEST for Swedish fans.
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How big would a BMF tournament have been?
Had the one-night BMF tournament been sanctioned, it could have become one of the most iconic events in UFC history. Featuring fan favorites known for their resilience and brawling styles, the four-man lineup would have guaranteed fireworks:
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Dustin Poirier: Known for his heart, power, and wars against the likes of Justin Gaethje and Dan Hooker.
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Max Holloway: The former featherweight king, renowned for his volume striking and durability.
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Justin Gaethje: “The Highlight,” famous for his reckless abandon and knockout power.
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Dan Hooker: The “Hangman,” always ready for violent, bloody battles.
Fans online have speculated heavily about potential outcomes, with many believing Poirier and Gaethje would have advanced to a brutal finale.
Unfortunately, the reality of fighter safety regulations made such a tournament impossible.
What’s next for the BMF title?
Regardless of the tournament dream being crushed, the BMF title lives on. Max Holloway currently holds the belt and will defend it against Poirier at UFC 318.
If Holloway wins, he will solidify his legacy as one of the most exciting and decorated fighters in UFC history. If Poirier wins, he will retire on top, joining the rare group of fighters who walked away as champions.
As the fight approaches, discussions continue about the future of the BMF title. Should it be defended regularly? Or should it retire along with Poirier if he captures it?
Summary
Dustin Poirier’s bold BMF tournament pitch reflects the fighter’s warrior spirit, even as his career winds down. Although the idea was ultimately rejected, fans still have the opportunity to witness a legendary battle at UFC 318 between two of the toughest fighters in MMA history.
Who do you think will walk away with the BMF belt at UFC 318: Dustin Poirier or Max Holloway? Let us know your pick in the comments!
Source: MMAnytt.se
