Dan Hooker has voiced concerns that the deep-seated animosity between himself and Arman Tsarukyan could jeopardize their highly anticipated UFC Qatar matchup.
UFC President Dana White recently announced two significant upcoming fights for the promotion`s inaugural event in Doha, Qatar, during an Instagram Live session last Wednesday.
Headlining the event will be a pivotal lightweight contender fight featuring the second-ranked Arman Tsarukyan against the sixth-ranked Dan Hooker.
This particular booking came as a surprise to many observers, especially considering that Tsarukyan was widely considered the next in line for a lightweight title shot.
Hooker Fears Pre-Fight Altercation Could Halt Tsarukyan Bout
Currently riding an impressive three-fight winning streak, `Hangman` Hooker has once again earned the opportunity to face a top-tier opponent.
‘Ahalkalakets’ Tsarukyan, on the other hand, has maintained an unbeaten record since his 2022 bout against Mateusz Gamrot, continuously showcasing his readiness for a championship challenge.
Over the past few years, Hooker and the Armenian fighter have cultivated a fierce rivalry, frequently exchanging verbal jabs online.
With their feud at an all-time high, Hooker is apprehensive that their scheduled November 22 fight against Tsarukyan could be called off if a specific situation unfolds.
“If he comes within arm`s reach of me (during the build-up), I`m going to hit him,” Hooker revealed during an interview with Submission Radio.
He elaborated, “That`s the simple truth; the fight will be off, and I don`t care. That`s what I`m saying – if you put me near him, the fight`s off, and I believe he feels the exact same way.”
Hooker continued, “If you put me near the guy, I`m going to try to hit him and throw stuff at him and get him agitated… The UFC wants this fight to happen, so it`s up to them to keep us separated.”
Hooker`s Post-Tsarukyan Ambitions
It is plausible that a victory over the 28-year-old Tsarukyan could position Hooker for a shot at the undisputed lightweight title, which is currently held by Ilia Topuria.
However, ‘Hangman’ indicated that if the undisputed title picture is already occupied, he would be keen on a confrontation with Max Holloway for the BMF title.
“If the undisputed title is busy, I`d also be interested in that Max fight for the BMF title,” Hooker stated.
