UFC legend officially removed from roster as Dana White's stance made clear
One of the UFC's most legendary fighters has been officially removed from the roster.
Dustin Poirier has now been officially removed from the UFC active fighter roster - marking the end of an era for one of MMA's biggest names.
Just over a week ago, the 36-year-old stepped into the octagon for the final time at UFC 318 in New Orleans.
Fighting in his home state of Louisiana, Poirier took on Max Holloway in an emotional farewell fight.
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Despite the support he did not get his dream farewell, falling short in a unanimous decision - marking the end of a career that began in 2011.
The 36-year-old retires with 22 wins from 32 bouts in the UFC, including an iconic victory over Conor McGregor. However, he was unable to win an undisputed title.
What has Dana White said?
One of those to give his thoughts on the decision was UFC's CEO, Dana White.
He has been critical of legendary figures retiring in the past, including Khabib Nurmagomedov and Daniel Cormier.
But in his press conference at UFC 318, he said he believed Poirier's retirement was a good decision.
“You look at his last 11 fights and who he’s fought, always comes to fight," said White.
“I don’t ever question when a guy says he wants to retire, other than I think Khabib and Cormier, who are the two guys that I’ve ever said, ‘I don’t know that it’s time.’
“That’s totally up to Poirier.
“This is a rough sport. He fought a rough fight tonight. And the way tonight went, retiring seems like the right thing to do.”
How did Dustin Poirier's farewell go?
After Holloway's victory by unanimous decision, he called out lightweight champion Ilia Topuria - before heaping praising on Poirier for his legendary career.
He said: "I've got some history with the champ. UFC, it's your move next, baby, but I'm done talking.
"This is Dustin's retirement fight - give it up to my man."
Poirier was emotional as he said goodbye to the sport which he has been involved with for more than 18 years.
He said: "I'm grateful for this experience and journey.
"I want to thank Dana White and the UFC for giving a kid a platform to make something of his life, to help keep my family is a safe place.
"I'm forever in debt to the company and mixed martial arts.
"It's taught me everything I know and I'm just thankful I got to walk this walk."
Topics: UFC, Dustin Poirier, Dana White, Max Holloway, MMA
James Taylor