Dan Hooker, known for his resilience in the UFC, was defeated by Arman Tsarukyan via arm-triangle choke in the second round at UFC Qatar, potentially positioning Tsarukyan for a lightweight title fight.
Dan Hooker is as tough as they come in the UFC. Every scar he bears is a badge of honor.
He faced Arman Tsarukyan in the main event at UFC Qatar on Saturday. Tsarukyan dominated early, finishing Hooker in the second round with a brutal arm-triangle choke. This marked Tsarukyan’s fifth straight win, possibly setting him up for a lightweight title fight with Ilia Topuria.
As Bruce Buffer prepared to announce the winner, Hooker glanced at the big screen. His face was battered and bruised, yet he took it in stride. Check out the video below (h/t Submission Radio).
Hooker returned to the octagon after defeating Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 305 in August 2024. “The Hangman” was on a three-fight win streak, eyeing a title shot. Despite his determination, he was outmatched by Tsarukyan.
Tsarukyan, in his first fight after nearly 600 days, hopes this victory propels him towards a lightweight title shot. The 29-year-old was initially set to fight Islam Makhachev for the title at UFC 311 in January. However, an injury sidelined him just before the event.