Retired UFC Star Dustin Poirier Arrested for Public Intoxication, Seeks Help

Dustin Poirier, the retired UFC fighter and former interim lightweight champion, was arrested for public intoxication at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia over Father's Day weekend. The 37-year-old from Louisiana was removed from a flight and subsequently became agitated during his encounter with airport police. Body camera footage released by the Atlanta Police Department captured Poirier threatening an officer, repeatedly saying "I'll fight you right now" and referencing using force before the officer drew his taser. Despite the heated confrontation, the situation was resolved without physical violence, and Poirier was placed in handcuffs and released on bail.

Following the arrest, Poirier publicly acknowledged his struggles and posted a statement on Instagram seeking help. "I'm at the point where I need some help," he wrote. "Walking away from fighting hasn't been easy on me and alcohol isn't the answer. It has ruined my father's life and I will not allow it to ruin mine, my family deserve me at 100%." The admission comes after Poirier retired from MMA in July 2025 following a distinguished 16-year career in which he compiled a 22-32 record in the UFC, earning respect as one of the sport's most accomplished fighters despite never capturing an undisputed title.

Poirier's arrest highlights his struggles with life after competition. The fighter has previously shared that he feels directionless without fighting, stating "If I'm not working towards something or trying to better my family I'm a danger to myself." He noted that "some days I'm great, some days I'm not so good." Prior to this incident, Poirier had posted in November about being on a path to sobriety and "soul searching" to make positive changes. In Georgia, public drunkenness is classified as a misdemeanor carrying penalties of up to one year in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, or both.

Since his retirement, Poirier has remained active in the MMA community, serving as a desk analyst for UFC broadcasts and making regular appearances on the promotion's shows on Paramount+. His competitive legacy includes victories over notable fighters such as Conor McGregor—notably the only person to knock McGregor out in the UFC—as well as Max Holloway, Justin Gaethje, and other top-ranked opponents. Beyond fighting, Poirier has been recognized for his charitable work supporting children in his home state of Louisiana.