“Go do kickboxing” – Fans furious over Dan Hooker’s bizarre take on wrestle-heavy fighters

UFC lightweight star Dan Hooker gets mocked for making fun of fighters who use wrestling and don't have highlight reel finishes.

“Go do kickboxing” – Fans furious over Dan Hooker’s bizarre take on wrestle-heavy fighters

Dan Hooker receives flak for his latest comments (via Imago/X)

Over the years, wrestling-heavy fighters have often dominated strikers who lack takedown defense inside the competitive landscape of the UFC. As a result, it’s not surprising to see many predominant strikers often complaining and downplaying the achievement and dominance of wrestlers. Top lightweight Dan Hooker is definitely one of them, and his latest criticism on wrestlers hasn’t gone well among fans.

Hooker is currently on a three-fight win streak with his last win coming against Mateusz Gamrot via split decision. As the #6-ranked fighter, the Kiwi is looking forward to getting his hands on the lightweight title. Speaking on title contenders in a recent interview, Hooker shared his views on wrestling-heavy fighters with lack of finishes. 

I don’t know why we got these stupid numbers next to our name. Before a guy fights, just play his highlight reel and if it’s all single and double legs, why the fuck would you get them a title shot?

Dan Hooker via Submission Radio

Strikers with highlight reel finishes such as Alex Pereira and Ilia Topuria are generally celebrated a lot in the MMA community. However, lately there have been several instances where strikers have been dethroned by others with a wrestling focus game plan. Some of the big examples are Merab Dvalishvili, who dominated Sean O’Malley, a knockout specialist with superior control. 

Similarly, Belal Muhammad also beat Leon Edwards, who was the best striker in the division before getting dominated. Both Muhammad and Dvalishvili mostly win their fights via unanimous decision and get criticism for their lack of lethality. Recently, Pereira, who is a fan favorite for his striking, got defeated by Magomed Ankalaev and the Russian fighter heavily relied on wrestling.

All these instances have attracted several concerns about the future of UFC from fans who like striking and knockouts. However, there are many others who enjoy watching fighters like Islam Makhachev and Jon Jones, who are more complete. The debate around it has been around for some time now but Hooker comments made sure to revive it. 

Fight fans react to Dan Hooker’s comments on wrestlers 

There are very few fighters who are more crazy and passionate about fighting than Dan Hooker. He is a warrior and has shown unmatched grit and heart in every battle inside the octagon. His fight with Dustin Poirier was an instant classic, showcasing relentless pace, violent exchanges, and unbelievable toughness from both fighters. 

Dan Hooker getting choked by Islam Makhachev
Dan Hooker getting choked by Islam Makhachev (via X)

Throughout his fighting career, Hooker has absorbed countless power shots, but never backed down without flinching or showing signs of quitting. While his fighting style is commendable, it was not effective against Islam Makhachev, who prioritizes using his advantage to attain the safest path to victory rather than getting into bloody wars. Here are some reactions from Hooker’s latest comments. 

As expected, many fans were disappointed in Hooker for his comments and mocked him for his inconsistent career. Others asked Hooker to learn takedown defense and quit complaining about fighters using MMA skills to win in UFC.

Is a title shot far away for Dan Hooker?

Dan Hooker could possibly become a UFC lightweight champion if he successfully navigates the current landscape filled with elite contenders. He was close to fighting top-ranked Justin Gaethje at UFC 313, but had to pull out due to an injury. Missing out on opportunities such as this in a competitive division like 155lbs is a huge loss.

Dan Hooker lightweight path
Dan Hooker lightweight path (via X)

Victories over top-ranked fighters like Charles Oliveira or Arman Tsarukyan can potentially solidify his claim. But getting to fight then would be a tough task, as everybody is looking forward to a title shot. He could also fight Paddy Pimblett and boost his visibility. However, everything will depend on how the promotion plans for his future. 

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