TLDR
- Dan Hooker called for UFC to schedule Ilia Topuria vs Arman Tsarukyan for the lightweight title at UFC 325 media day
- Hooker questioned why the UFC hasn’t booked the fight, saying both fighters are at their physical peak
- He warned that waiting too long could cause either fighter to lose momentum
- Hooker developed newfound respect for Tsarukyan after their recent fight, despite a headbutt incident
- The UFC has not yet announced plans for Topuria’s next title defense
Sources: Armenian Sports News | Total Pro Sports
Dan Hooker publicly called for the UFC to schedule a lightweight title fight between champion Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan during UFC 325 media day. The New Zealand fighter questioned why the organization has not yet booked the matchup.
Hooker recently faced Tsarukyan in the octagon, but now endorses his former opponent as the ideal challenger for the lightweight title. “I don’t know why we aren’t seeing Ilia vs Arman,” Hooker said at the media event.
Timing and Peak Performance
The UFC veteran emphasized that both fighters are currently at their physical peak and should compete while at the top of their game. He stressed that timing and momentum are critical factors in professional mixed martial arts.
Hooker warned that waiting too long could hurt both fighters’ championship opportunities. He suggested that either athlete might lose their momentum if the UFC delays scheduling the bout.
The endorsement represents a change in Hooker’s view of Tsarukyan following their recent encounter. He spoke about the importance of capitalizing on a fighter’s prime years when championship opportunities arise.
Dan Hooker says Arman Tsarukyan should be fighting Ilia Topuria and not wasting his best years
"I like Arman now. He's won me over as a fan. The saddest part about it is that the best years of his career are being wasted, He should be fighting Ilia”pic.twitter.com/3xS9xyI9Pi
— Dovy🔌 (@DovySimuMMA) January 27, 2026
Newfound Respect Between Fighters
Hooker revealed to MMA journalist Ariel Helwani that he had developed a new level of respect for Tsarukyan after their fight. This admission came just one day before his comments at the UFC 325 media day.
The two fighters were involved in a headbutt incident during their recent bout. Despite this confrontation, Hooker now advocates for Tsarukyan to receive the next title shot.
Tsarukyan has been actively pushing for a high-profile fight in recent months. The Armenian fighter has positioned himself as a top contender in the lightweight division.
Topuria currently holds the UFC lightweight title and is considered one of the division’s most skilled champions. A matchup between Topuria and Tsarukyan would bring together two fighters in their prime.
Hooker’s comments highlight his belief that both men are capable of delivering an exciting championship fight. He emphasized that the matchup makes sense from a competitive standpoint given their current form.
The UFC has not yet announced plans for Topuria’s next title defense. Hooker’s public endorsement adds pressure on the organization to make a decision about the lightweight title picture.
Tsarukyan’s camp has been vocal about wanting a title opportunity. Hooker’s support from a fellow fighter who recently competed against Tsarukyan carries weight in the MMA community.
The UFC 325 media day provided Hooker with a platform to express his views on the lightweight division. His statements came as part of promotional activities for the upcoming event.
