Dan Hooker is eagerly preparing for his return to the UFC after a lengthy recovery from a hand injury, and he has been granted a highly anticipated matchup against Arman Tsarukyan in the first UFC event to be held in Qatar. This fight carries significant stakes, as UFC CEO Dana White indicated that the winner could be in line to challenge for the lightweight title.
Hooker’s rivalry with Tsarukyan dates back to when the latter first entered the UFC, where he criticized Hooker’s skills and accomplishments, suggesting that Hooker was avoiding a confrontation with him. In an interview, Hooker expressed his determination to stand his ground against Tsarukyan, whom he perceives as someone who comes from privilege due to his wealthy family background. Hooker emphasized that while Tsarukyan may excel in the octagon, their different upbringings give him a distinctive motivation.
“There’s a clear divide in our backgrounds,” Hooker stated. “I represent the working man and have fought through adversity, while he seems to come from a more comfortable lifestyle.” He further reflected on Tsarukyan’s claims of not having enough wealth to afford luxuries like a private jet, highlighting the dismissive attitude that comes with privilege.
As the fight week progresses, both fighters have maintained calm, avoiding any physical confrontations ahead of their bout. Hooker is aware of the dynamics—himself as the striker against Tsarukyan, a powerful wrestler known for dominating grappling exchanges. However, Hooker has been sharpening his wrestling skills during his time away from the octagon and is prepared to engage on the ground as well.
“I’ve improved my wrestling a lot,” Hooker remarked. “If Arman wants to grapple, we can grapple. I’m not running away from anything.” He acknowledges that both athletes will face challenges during the fight but expresses confidence in his endurance and experience.
This matchup not only brings personal stakes for Hooker, who views it as an opportunity to settle a longstanding rivalry, but also the wider implications of advancing in the lightweight division. Hooker sees the bout as a chance to dismantle Tsarukyan’s rise as a contender and position himself as the top challenger for the championship in the near future.
With excitement building, the fight promises to deliver high stakes and intense competition in the octagon, adding to the anticipation of the first UFC event in Qatar. Hooker is ready to face the challenges ahead, hoping to emerge victorious and fulfill his ambitions of title contention.