Key Highlights
- Dan Hooker faces Arman Tsarukyan in the main event of UFC Qatar.
- Tsarukyan’s privilege and wealth have fueled Hooker’s animosity towards him.
- Hooker believes he represents hard work and determination, while Tsarukyan has had an easier path to success.
- Hooker is preparing for a full 30 minutes of grappling with Tsarukyan despite the expected striker vs. grappler matchup.
The Rivalry Heats Up: Hooker’s Anticipation and Animosity Towards Tsarukyan
Dan Hooker, the resilient New Zealand fighter, has been eagerly awaiting his return to action after a long layoff due to an injury. However, his desire for combat is not just about regaining form but also about facing Arman Tsarukyan in the main event of UFC Qatar.
Hooker’s issues with Tsarukyan date back several years, stemming from early comments made by Tsarukyan that discredited Hooker’s skill set and accomplishments. “My original problem with him was when he first came into the UFC and pretty early on he was chiming in and discrediting my skill set, discrediting my accomplishments,” Hooker explained to MMA Fighting.
The Disparity in Backgrounds
While Tsarukyan’s credentials as a fighter are undeniable, Hooker sees a stark contrast between their respective paths. Tsarukyan hails from a family of great means; his father owns and operates a construction business with a reported net worth reaching nine figures. This background has allowed Tsarukyan to enjoy the best training, coaches, and amenities.
Hooker, on the other hand, believes he represents the “working man” who has fought through adversity to reach this level of success.
He emphasized, “I feel like we just come from different places… I’m a fighter for the working man and represent hard working and sticking at it.” This perspective is further highlighted by his career journey, being the first New Zealand-based fighter to make it to the UFC.
Pre-Fight Tension and Preparedness
The fight was initially announced with Hooker expressing his excitement but also revealing that he has a deep-seated issue with Tsarukyan. He believes Tsarukyan’s mentality of having everything handed to him, including a private jet and yacht, sets them apart in terms of motivation.
Hooker is not backing down from the challenge. He stated, “I feel like I’m a fighter for the working man and represent hard working and sticking at it…
I feel like he’s had everything handed to him. The best coaches and the best training and fly around here and just kind of had the easy road.” This mindset is reflected in his approach to the fight, where he plans to meet any challenge head-on. “I’m going to wrestle him and make him tired,” Hooker said.
Despite the expected striker vs. grappler matchup, Hooker has prepared for a full 30 minutes of grappling. He believes that meeting Tsarukyan’s takedowns is essential and mentioned, “You can’t avoid anything… If Arman wants to wrestle, we can wrestle.” Hooker aims to use his improved wrestling skills from the time off, showing that he is not intimidated by the prospect of a ground battle.
The Title Shot Implications
A win against Tsarukyan would secure Hooker a title shot in 2026. This fight has taken on even more significance for him as it represents an opportunity to both remove Tsarukyan from the lightweight contender’s race and step into the top contender position himself. “I got the fight by telling the matchmakers please let me get rid of this guy… Next thing I walked into the fight,” Hooker explained.
Hooker’s determination is evident, as he vows to not be pushed around or bullied by Tsarukyan. He stated, “If he wants to wrestle, we can wrestle but I guarantee he’s going to get tired first.” This mindset reflects his belief in his own abilities and his commitment to the fight.
