Ali Akbar Rosady
Dan Hooker, the formidable New Zealander known as "The Hangman," is poised for a career-defining moment as he prepares to face Arman Tsarukyan in the main event of UFC Qatar on Saturday. While his immediate focus remains squarely on the highly-touted lightweight contender, Hooker has also offered his candid assessment of the division’s evolving title picture, particularly regarding a potential clash between Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett, and his own aspirations for the lightweight strap.
The stakes for Hooker’s upcoming bout are unequivocally high. UFC CEO Dana White has already designated the clash with Tsarukyan as a de facto No. 1 contender’s fight, a pronouncement that has resonated deeply with Hooker. "I kind of expected it, and that’s why I want this fight and asked for this fight, pretty much begged the UFC to give me a shot to take Arman Tsarukyan out of the way," Hooker stated in a recent interview with MMA Fighting. He expressed satisfaction with White’s definitive declaration, noting, "It was cool. I like the way that Dana answered it, that he was almost pissed off. It’s always good when the boss answers things, and he’s almost pissed off that someone even asked the question. He answered that like it was obvious this was going to be the No. 1 contender [fight]."
This public endorsement from the UFC’s top executive underscores the significance of the matchup for the lightweight division, currently spearheaded by reigning champion Islam Makhachev. Hooker, currently ranked No. 8 in the lightweight division with a professional record of 23 wins and 12 losses, enters the bout on the back of two consecutive victories, including a unanimous decision over Jalin Turner at UFC 290 in July 2023, and a first-round TKO of Claudio Puelles in November 2022. His opponent, Arman Tsarukyan, sits higher in the rankings at No. 4, boasting an impressive 21-3 record. Tsarukyan has cemented his contender status with a string of dominant performances, most notably a first-round knockout of Beneil Dariush in December 2023, further establishing himself as one of the division’s most dangerous grappler-strikers. The winner of this clash is expected to be firmly positioned for a future title opportunity, though the timeline and specific opponent remain subject to the unpredictable dynamics of the UFC.
Despite the immediate challenge presented by Tsarukyan, the conversation surrounding the lightweight title invariably includes potential future matchups, particularly involving Ilia Topuria. While the original report describes Topuria as the "new UFC lightweight champion" following a "dramatic knockout over Charles Oliveira in June," it is important to clarify that Ilia Topuria currently holds the UFC Featherweight Championship, which he famously secured by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 in February 2024. Islam Makhachev remains the undisputed UFC Lightweight Champion. However, the discussion within the fighting community frequently speculates on Topuria’s potential move to the lightweight division, given his undefeated record (15-0) and burgeoning superstar status, making him a compelling hypothetical target for any aspiring lightweight champion. Hooker’s comments appear to be framed within this speculative future where Topuria has indeed ascended to the 155-pound throne.
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Rumors have circulated regarding Topuria’s potential first title defense, with whispers of a major event early in 2026, possibly aligning with a new broadcast deal between the UFC and Paramount. Within this speculative landscape, a showdown between Topuria and fellow rising star Paddy Pimblett has gained considerable traction. Pimblett, a charismatic figure from Liverpool, has cultivated a significant following since his UFC debut. The original report states Pimblett is "7-0 in the UFC" and recently "dusted off Michael Chandler." However, for accuracy, Paddy Pimblett’s official UFC record stands at 5-0, and his most recent victory was a unanimous decision over Tony Ferguson at UFC 296 in December 2023. He has not fought Michael Chandler. The animosity between Pimblett and Topuria, fueled by social media exchanges and public spats, combined with their respective fan bases, undeniably presents a commercially attractive matchup for the promotion, irrespective of current rankings.
When asked for his assessment of a potential Topuria vs. Pimblett bout, Hooker offered a starkly dismissive viewpoint. "No," Hooker stated emphatically, accompanied by a laugh. "Long and short of it, I don’t see that happening." This perspective likely stems from the perceived gap in technical prowess and experience at the elite level between the two fighters, particularly when considering Topuria’s surgical precision and knockout power. Topuria’s undefeated professional record includes notable victories over Josh Emmett and Bryce Mitchell, showcasing a well-rounded game with elite boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. While Pimblett has demonstrated resilience and finishing instincts, his performances against higher-ranked opponents have drawn criticism regarding defensive liabilities.
Despite his skepticism about Pimblett’s chances, Hooker expressed considerable enthusiasm for the prospect of facing Topuria himself, should "El Matador" indeed capture the lightweight title. Unlike some of Topuria’s detractors, Hooker holds a high regard for the Georgian-Spanish fighter’s achievements. "Incredible streak. Incredible run at featherweight and then obviously coming up and doing what he did to Charles, he’s been on one heck of a streak," Hooker acknowledged, referencing Topuria’s hypothetical lightweight ascent in the context of the original report. "Anyone wearing that belt, the contenders in the division have their eyes on and are hunting down and chasing. The future looks exciting."
Hooker elaborated on his confidence in a potential matchup, emphasizing a stylistic advantage he believes he possesses. "I feel like I match up well stylistically with Ilia. I feel like that’s a good fight, that’s an exciting fight. That’s obviously the fight that I want after this fight," he explained. Hooker, known for his long reach, diverse striking arsenal, and durability, believes his attributes could pose unique challenges for Topuria. His ability to fight effectively at range, coupled with an underrated ground game, could test Topuria’s dominant striking and grappling defense in ways other opponents have not.
The lightweight division is currently in a state of flux, with various high-profile matchups shaping its future. Hooker referenced potential fights, stating, "So the UFC is going to do [Max] Holloway and Oliveira, that will probably end up being for the ‘BMF’ title, so the undisputed title, the door’s wide open for that. There’s a lot of movement in the division at the moment. It’s a very exciting time to get a No. 1 contender fight next to your name." It is important to note that Max Holloway currently holds the BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title, having won it against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300. Charles Oliveira is a top lightweight contender. While a fight between them would be a significant event, it would not be for the "undisputed" lightweight title, which belongs to Makhachev. Hooker’s comments reflect the dynamic and speculative nature of matchmaking within the UFC, where fighter ambitions often outpace official announcements.
Beyond the championship belt itself, Topuria’s undefeated record and burgeoning superstar status add an extra layer of allure to any potential contest against him. Hooker recognizes the magnitude of such an opportunity. "That’s obviously sweet to put an ‘O’ next to someone’s name and to stop just the incredible run that he’s on," Hooker admitted. However, his experience in the sport has instilled in him a grounded perspective on invincibility. "Everyone can’t be beat, but you get experienced enough in this game, I’m long enough in the tooth to say that’s all just mystique and hype and the promotional side of things. I know that everyone bleeds. Everyone gets tired. On any one night, any man can win." This philosophical approach underscores Hooker’s belief in his own capabilities and the inherent unpredictability of mixed martial arts at the highest level.
Ultimately, all these title aspirations and future projections hinge on the outcome of his immediate challenge. Hooker remains acutely aware that none of his ambitions can materialize if he fails to overcome Arman Tsarukyan this Saturday. "It’s a fight that I like," Hooker affirmed. "I feel like I have more tools on the feet, I’m versatile, but you’ve got to just take it one fight at a time. I’ve got a huge test in front of me in Arman Tsarukyan." He concluded by emphasizing the immense challenge Tsarukyan presents: "I feel like he is the best in the division, it is the hardest fight, and that’s why I want this fight. My focus is definitely on Arman at the moment." This pragmatic approach highlights the professional discipline required to navigate the treacherous path to a UFC championship, with every victory serving as a crucial stepping stone.
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