Dustin Poirier Shares Struggle with Alcoholism

UFC fighter Dustin Poirier opened up about his battle with alcoholism in a candid Instagram post on Tuesday.

In his heartfelt message, he expressed a pressing need for support. “I’m at a point where I need help,” he confessed. “Avoiding the ring has been tough, and alcohol isn’t the answer. It ruined my father’s life, and I refuse to let it destroy mine. My family deserves the best of me.”

Poirier, who stepped away from fighting in July 2025 following a defeat to Max Holloway at UFC 318, faced legal issues shortly before his hospitalization. Police detained him for public intoxication at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta.

Reports indicate that authorities removed him from a plane on Father’s Day. While details remain murky, TMZ released footage that showed Poirier in a heated argument with airport personnel and officers attempting to calm him down.

In the video, he was heard shouting, “Let’s go, big dog. What’s up? Bunchakwa. Let’s go.” He seemed agitated, saying, “Oh, they took me off the plane, and now what the heck?” before daring others to engage in a fight.

He even challenged an airport employee, saying, “Come on, fuck you. I’m ready to fight you right now.” Despite repeated attempts by officials to defuse the encounter, Poirier remained confrontational, even pointing a Taser at one of the officers.

If convicted, he could face up to a year in prison.

Poirier concluded his social media post by acknowledging the need for change and committing to seek help. “I’m doing everything I can to get my mind right and make the right next steps,” he stated.

With a professional MMA record of 30 wins, 10 losses, and one “no contest,” Poirier has made quite an impact in the sport. He held the UFC Interim Lightweight Champion title in 2019 and is tied for seventh place for most wins in UFC history.