The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) is abuzz with excitement as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) prepares to host its latest event, UFC 318. The card promises to be an action-packed evening, featuring a star-studded lineup of fighters vying for victory in the Octagon. However, what sets this event apart from others is the unique role that former UFC champion Daniel Cormier will play in the commentary booth.

Cormier, who is set to call the fights alongside Paul Felder and Jon Anik, has expressed his excitement and trepidation about taking on this new challenge. In an interview with MMA Junkie's Mike Bohn, he revealed that he believes UFC 318 will be his toughest task to date as a commentator, citing the emotional significance of the event.

The main event of the evening pits Dustin Poirier against Max Holloway in a highly anticipated matchup that promises to be a thrilling ride. As Poirier prepares to bid farewell to the sport with one last fight, Cormier is bracing himself for what he describes as an "emotional" experience.

Growing up in Lafayette, Louisiana, Cormier has always been closely connected to Poirier, who hails from the same city and state. The two have a long-standing relationship that dates back to 2011, when Cormier defeated Jeff Monson at UFC 130. Over the years, Cormier has called some of Poirier's most memorable fights from cage-side, but he believes this next chapter will be his toughest challenge yet.

"I had to do some pretty emotional ones before my career," Cormier said, "but I think this one will probably be the hardest because I met Dustin way back after I beat Jeff Monson in like 2011 in Dallas. I ran into him at a gym in Lafayette and to see what he's become, it's outstanding."

Cormier's affection for Poirier is evident, and he acknowledges that their relationship has been built on mutual respect and admiration. However, Cormier also recognizes that this event will be different from previous encounters between the two.

"For Dustin, fighting in his home state of Louisiana is a whole different ball game," Cormier explained. "He's gonna feel what it means to be a true champion, to represent Lafayette in the way that he does. It's special."

In fact, Cormier believes that Poirier's connection to the city and its fans will give him an added edge in this fight. He recalls his own experiences fighting in front of hometown crowds and understands the significance of having a strong support system.

"I mean, the fact that this guy still lives at home," Cormier said. "Born and raised there, represents Lafayette in the way that he does, it's special. I didn't get that."

As the event approaches, Cormier is reflecting on his own experiences as a fighter and how they have prepared him for this new challenge. While he has called fights from cage-side before, he recognizes that being inside the Octagon to interview fighters will be an entirely different experience.

"I'm looking forward to watching Dustin receive this opportunity now that he has cemented himself as a modern-day great," Cormier said. "It's going to be absolute madness."

UFC 318 promises to be a night to remember, with Poirier and Holloway set to put on a show for the ages. As Cormier prepares to take on this new role in the commentary booth, he is also looking forward to witnessing Poirier experience something that he never got to experience during his own career.

"It's going to be special," Cormier said. "I'm excited to see what happens."

In addition to the main event, UFC 318 features a star-studded lineup of fighters vying for victory in the Octagon. The card promises to be an action-packed evening, with multiple title bouts and high-stakes matchups that will have fans on the edge of their seats.

While Cormier's role as commentator is undoubtedly unique, he is confident that his experience and knowledge of the sport will serve him well in this new capacity. As he prepares to take on the challenge ahead, he is also mindful of the emotional significance of the event and the impact it will have on Poirier and his fans.

For Cormier, UFC 318 represents more than just a fight – it's a celebration of Poirier's remarkable career and the legacy he has built as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. As he prepares to call the fights alongside Felder and Anik, he is also looking forward to witnessing Poirier experience something that he never got to experience during his own career.

"It's going to be a special night," Cormier said. "I'm excited to see what happens."

In conclusion, UFC 318 promises to be an unforgettable event, with a star-studded lineup of fighters vying for victory in the Octagon. As Daniel Cormier prepares to take on this new role as commentator, he is also mindful of the emotional significance of the event and the impact it will have on Poirier and his fans.

For those who are new to MMA or have followed the sport for years, UFC 318 promises to be a thrilling ride that will showcase some of the greatest fighters in the world. With Cormier's unique perspective as a commentator and his connection to Poirier, this event is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

So mark your calendars for July 19th, when UFC 318 takes place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The card promises to be an action-packed evening, with multiple title bouts and high-stakes matchups that will have fans on the edge of their seats.

As Cormier prepares to take on this new challenge, he is also looking forward to witnessing Poirier experience something that he never got to experience during his own career. For those who are following the sport, UFC 318 promises to be a night to remember – and one that will go down in history as one of the greatest events in MMA history.