UFC Qatar: Arman Tsarukyan vs Dan Hooker Prediction and Breakdown

The lightweight showdown between Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar is one of the most anticipated matchups on the card. Tsarukyan enters with momentum and the reputation of being one of the division’s most complete rising contenders, while Hooker brings years of top-tier experience and the confidence that he can still compete with the very best. With both men possessing contrasting strengths, the clash promises a technical and high-paced battle.

Arman Tsarukyan

Arman Tsarukyan has built his name through relentless pressure, elite scrambling ability and constant improvement in his striking game. At 22-3, he is widely regarded as a future title contender, and many still point to his competitive debut against Islam Makhachev as proof of his high-level talent from day one. Tsarukyan thrives when he is able to mix levels, force grappling exchanges and make opponents work harder than they want to.

His conditioning and chain wrestling give him a long-term advantage in most fights, and UAE cards have historically favoured wrestlers who can maintain pace in humid conditions. At UFC Qatar, Tsarukyan will look to overwhelm Hooker early and prevent him from settling into a striking rhythm.

Dan Hooker

Dan Hooker remains one of the most respected and battle-tested lightweights in the division. With a record of 24-12, he has faced nearly every major contender and has shown the ability to push elite fighters like Dustin Poirier and Paul Felder to their limits. Hooker’s strength lies in his long-range striking, sharp knees and ability to punish aggressive entries with intercepting shots.

His height and reach allow him to control distance better than most at 155 pounds. If Hooker can keep Tsarukyan on the outside, he can turn the fight into a technical striking match. The challenge will be stopping Tsarukyan’s wrestling pressure as the rounds progress.

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Tale of the Tape

Category	Arman Tsarukyan	Dan Hooker
Record	22-3	24-12
Height	5’7”	6’0”
Reach	72.5 in	75 in
Stance	Orthodox	Orthodox
Age	28	34

Fight Analysis

This matchup is built around one central dynamic: Tsarukyan’s pressure versus Hooker’s range. Tsarukyan excels when he can close distance quickly, force takedowns and grind opponents against the fence with nonstop activity. Once he establishes his rhythm, his opponents often find themselves defending instead of attacking, which drains energy and limits offensive opportunities.

Hooker’s path is clear. He must keep the fight standing and find ways to interrupt Tsarukyan’s forward movement. His knees and front kicks will be crucial tools, and if he can force Tsarukyan to reset repeatedly, he can disrupt the wrestler’s timing. Hooker has the power and precision to cause real problems if he lands clean while Tsarukyan is entering.

However, Hooker has historically struggled against heavy wrestlers, particularly when they sustain pressure over the course of multiple rounds. Tsarukyan’s gas tank, transitions and physicality may create prolonged grappling sequences that tilt the fight in his favour. Over time, this could make it difficult for Hooker to maintain the range he needs.

When, Where and How To Watch

Arman Tsarukyan vs Dan Hooker takes place at UFC Qatar, airing globally through the UFC’s usual broadcast partners. Scheduled as one of the standout main card bouts, it will be shown live with timing depending on your region’s broadcast schedule. Fans can expect high stakes and a strong pace from the opening moments.

Prediction

Tsarukyan’s wrestling, conditioning and ability to mix his attacks give him the more reliable path to victory across three rounds. Hooker can threaten if the fight remains at long range, but sustaining that distance against Tsarukyan is a difficult task.

Prediction: Arman Tsarukyan wins via decision