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Dustin Poirier says he is sober and won’t drink again after arrest

The Ariel Helwani Show · Dustin Poirier, Ryan Garcia, Bruce Buffer, Brandon Royval, More | The Ariel Helwani Show | 7/21/26 · July 21, 2026
Dustin Poirier says he is sober and won’t drink again after arrest
The Ariel Helwani Show
The Ariel Helwani Show
Dustin Poirier, Ryan Garcia, Bruce Buffer, Brandon Royval, More | The Ariel Helwani Show | 7/21/26
"It'll never happen again. I'm, uh, I'm a month sober from alcohol, and I'm never going to pick up alcohol again. You know, this has changed my the trajectory of my life."
Dustin Poirier tells Ariel Helwani he has stopped drinking since a recent airport incident, saying he is about a month sober and intends to abstain permanently. He frames the episode as a turning point in managing long-running mental health and alcohol-related issues.

About this episode

Ariel Helwani opens with MMA news and a light segment on UFC memorabilia auctions, including a fan’s claim—backed by a receipt—that she purchased an Ilia Topuria-used corner stool for a reported $18,000, prompting discussion about the UFC selling what Helwani calls athletes’ low moments. Helwani also plays an interview clip of Dan Hooker addressing Israel Adesanya leaving City Kickboxing, with Hooker stressing support and saying he does not know Adesanya’s next training plans.

Brandon Royval joins to discuss his UFC 329 win over Lonnie Kavanagh, revealing he broke an ankle bone during the bout and underwent surgery within days. He describes cutting sparring three weeks early due to accumulated damage and talks about the pressure of a two-fight skid, his push to improve social-media engagement, and becoming a father.

Bruce Buffer details being hired by FIFA to announce World Cup matches alongside Michael Buffer and reflects on announcing at the White House UFC event, including a flyover during the national anthem.

Dustin Poirier addresses his recent airport incident, saying he faces a public intoxication misdemeanor, is about a month sober, and plans never to drink again. He says Bud Light terminated his deal immediately, credits the UFC for reaching out with support, and shares a personal update on his father’s homelessness and alcoholism.

Ryan Garcia previews his 12 September title defence against Conor Benn, criticises Oscar De La Hoya’s public comments about the bout’s appeal, says he would refuse any Zuffa Boxing uniform, and claims he has instructed a lawyer to sue Devin Haney’s camp over steroid-related allegations.

Key takeaways

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