Hooker in intense training. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Dan Hooker is aware of the impact a victory over Arman Tsarukyan could have on his career. The New Zealander returns to the octagon in the main event of UFC Qatar, scheduled for next Saturday (22), and, in case of victory, could definitively consolidate his name in the race for the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg). Despite maintaining the dream of competing for the category's belt, the striker also sees other possibilities within the division itself.
In an interview with UFC News, Hooker highlighted that having two belts opens up different paths in his career. For him, defeating Arman Tsarukyan could put him in contention for both the 'BMF' title and the undisputed lightweight belt.
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“That’s the beauty of having two titles in the division. If I beat Arman, I can go in there and fight for the BMF belt or the undisputed title,” said Dan Hooker.
UFC lightweight belt and 'BMF'
After Islam Makhachev vacated the lightweight belt to compete for and win the welterweight title (up to 77 kg), Ilia Topuria assumed the throne of the category and found himself facing a veritable line of challengers, including Arman Tsarukyan , Paddy Pimblett , and Justin Gaethje.
The 'BMF' belt, which symbolizes the 'baddest motherfucker in the UFC', although not an official title, also generates a lot of buzz in the lightweight division. Currently held by Max Holloway , it's likely the trophy will be up for grabs again in a fight against Charles Oliveira.
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