“Don’t Like His Face” – Dan Hooker Issues Violent Warning to Arman Tsarukyan Ahead of Grudge Match

UFC lightweight star Dan Hooker shares his hatred towards former top contender and upcoming rival Arman Tsarukyan.

“Don’t Like His Face” – Dan Hooker Issues Violent Warning to Arman Tsarukyan Ahead of Grudge Match

Dan Hooker doesn't like Arman Tsarukyan ahead of UFC Qatar (via X)

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The UFC lightweight division is stacked with elite fighters, each hungry to climb rankings and prove themselves among the best. Rivalries often spark between top contenders, creating drama and making the division one of the most competitive landscapes in UFC. Among these, Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker are scheduled to clash soon, promising fans fireworks and excitement.

UFC CEO Dana White recently revealed the UFC Qatar fight card, scheduled to take place on November 22nd at ABHA Arena. The main event features a heated grudge fight between #2-ranked lightweight Tsarukyan and New Zealand’s fan-favorite striker, Dan Hooker. Before the fight, Hooker gave an interview where he openly discussed his animosity towards Tsarukyan, raising the intensity dramatically.

I don’t like that his face is attached to his body. I would love to separate the two. I don’t know anything about him, but I hate everything he stands for. Can’t wait to elbow him in the nose.

Dan Hooker via Submission Radio 

The rivalry escalated sharply after Arman Tsarukyan withdrew from a lightweight title fight in January 2025, drawing Hooker’s harsh criticism. The ‘Hangman’ openly accused Tsarukyan of pulling out from important fights, questioning his durability and overall ability to handle big moments. He further mocked Tsarukyan for allegedly injuring his back while ‘creeping’ on social media star Nina Drama.

The Kiwi didn’t stop there, criticizing Tsarukyan’s privileged upbringing and suggesting his UFC opportunities were unearned, gifted rather than deserved. Tsarukyan retaliated aggressively, mocking Hooker’s frequent injuries, inactivity, and lack of consistency while also slandering him through social media exchanges.

Although Tsarukyan has not fought in the octagon for over fifteen months, he has remained busy competing in grappling competitions. Most notably, he recently submitted former UFC champion Benson Henderson in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu event, showcasing elite grappling dominance.

Despite the heated trash talk, Hooker believes Tsarukyan is a legitimate contender and possibly the biggest threat to champion Ilia Topuria. At UFC Qatar, Hooker has promised to take that privilege from Tsarukyan and put an end to their rivalry. 

Dan Hooker believes he has an opportunity to fight for two titles 

Dan Hooker is among UFC’s most entertaining fighters, known for engaging wars and relentless action that captivates fans. His bout with Dustin Poirier in 2020 was a brutal, back-and-forth slugfest that showcased Hooker’s heart and durability. Despite enduring significant damage, Hooker’s ability to absorb hits and keep pressing forward has earned him a reputation for toughness. 

Dan Hooker can fight for two titles
Dan Hooker can fight for two titles (via X)

Hooker has often shown a willingness to fight for the symbolic BMF title currently held by Max Holloway. The Hawaiian recently defeated Poirier, rebounding strongly after a previous title loss to reclaim his dominance in the division. In the recent interview, Hooker expressed his desire and optimism to compete for the BMF title, believing the opportunity is realistic. 

We lucky enough to get two titles in the division. Regardless of I get my hand raised against Arman. If the undisputed title is busy then I like that Max fight. I like that BMF title shot as well. It’s a BMF and undisputed title eliminator for myself.

Dan Hooker continued.

Hooker is currently on a three-fight win streak, winning against Mateusz Gamrot in his last bout via split decision at UFC 305. Gamrot is well known for his wrestling threat, but the ‘Hangman’ was able to stuff multiple takedowns and even wobble his opponent hard.

Many fans believe Arman Tsarukyan could face similar difficulties against Hooker, despite possessing a more dangerous ground game. Tsarukyan’s wrestling threat pose a different challenge as his ground and pound strikes are often deadly. It will be interesting to see who among these fighters makes their way to the next title shot.

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