This weekend will be a big one for Hooker as the No. 6-ranked lightweight takes a big step up in competition and meets No. 1-ranked contender Arman Tsarukyan atop UFC Qatar’s ESPN+ main card. Hooker hasn’t fought since an upset win over Mateusz Gamrot back in Aug. 2024, which is the longest layoff of his UFC career. That puts a lot of pressure on “Hangman” as he looks to overthrow one of the toughest outs in the division.
Ahead of Hooker’s UFC Qatar main event fight, the lightweight veteran ended up meeting Pimblett — who is currently ranked one spot above him at N0. 5 — during Friday’s ceremonial weigh ins. Pimblett is in Qatar to help corner his friend, Shem Rock, who is making his Octagon debut on the undercard. The two lightweight contenders were very cordial and had a few laughs, but Hooker basically told Pimblett to his face that he hates him because he’s ranked higher.
“I hate everyone ranked in front of me. If you’re behind me, great bloke,” explained Hooker.
“I like the style,” responded Pimblett with a laugh.
We’ll see later today if Hooker is able to pull off one of the biggest upsets of the year and hand Tsarukyan just his third loss as a member of the UFC roster. If that happens, there’s a chance “Hangman” and “Baddy” could cross paths once again in 2026, but this time inside of the cage.
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