Dan Hooker speaks out for the very first time after losing to UFC Qatar.
Arman Tsarukyan defeated the long-time competitor in two rounds Saturday night.
The Armenian accused Ilia Topuria of ‘running’ as he called for a lightweight title shot during his post-fight interview.
Dan Hooker had a major epiphany a few days later as he was drinking beer and reflecting on his 13th career loss.
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Arman Tsarukyan defeated Dan Hooker in UFC Qatar. Credit: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Dan Hooker breaks silence after UFC Qatar loss
Dan Hooker was honest in his post-fight discussion with Oscar Willis, The Mac Life.
‘The Hangman’ admitted that a UFC belt is most likely not in his future before setting a new career goal.
“Well, you’ve gotta face the cold, hard truths,”Hooker said.
“You’re probably never going to get your hands on a title.
“But I’m going to hang around as long as I possibly can and ruin as many people’s hopes and dreams as I can.
“If I can’t have nice things, no one can.”
The light title picture
Ilia Topuria currently is looking for someone against whom he can defend his lightweight title in 2026.
‘El Matador’ is expected to return to the Octagon during the first couple of months of next year.
Paddy Pimblett, Justin Gaethje and others have been mentioned as possible opponents. However, neither has made a convincing case to be considered for the title.
Arman Tsarukyan is the long-time #1 contender, who would’ve already had his shot if he hadn’t pulled out of his UFC 311 clash with Islam Makhachev after suffering a back injury 24 hours before the event.
Dana White was furious and insisted Tsarukyan had to fight back into contention for the 155lb title.
Who should be the next contender for the lightweight title?
It’s currently unclear if his dominant win over Dan Hooker was enough to mend their fractured relationship, but Tsarukyan says he’ll be ready to go if he gets the call to…
2025-11-23 12:04:02
