“Stick to sh*tty tattoos and false accusations” – Dan Hooker’s ‘salty’ comment on Islam Makhachev ducking Arman for Conor McGregor enrages fans

Dan Hooker’s statements towards Islam Makhachev have recently created controversy. It has attracted major attention from fans in the MMA world. Hooker, a seasoned fighter, believes Makhachev would retire rather than face Arman Tsarukyan in a rematch. This comment has not only sparked debate in the MMA world, but it has also sparked criticism for implying that Makhachev would avoid a difficult opponent.

The starting point of this argument may be seen in the shifting landscape of the lightweight category. Hooker’s comments imply that Makhachev would choose high-profile fights against fighters like Conor McGregor or Justin Gaethje than a rematch with Tsarukyan. This concept of selective matchmaking has sparked a debate that real champions should be willing to face any opponent, regardless of the danger. This is what he said:

He ain't gonna fight him. I guarantee you he will retire by the time Arman gets there for sure… Its too risky[for Islam]

Dan Hooker via The MMA Hour

Dan Hooker also made remarks about Makhachev that he could choose more profitable or high-profile battles, notably against Conor McGregor. McGregor is well-known in the MMA industry for his huge drawing power and popularity. Also, Islam’s relationship with Khabib makes it a mega fight for sure.

Hooker’s comments about Makhachev avoiding a rematch in favor of more high-profile matches have fueled the continuing lightweight division storyline. It would remain to be seen if Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan face off against each other again.

Fight fans react to Dan Hooker’s comments about Islam Makhachev ducking Arman Tsaukyan

Dan Hooker’s recent statements implying that Islam Makhachev may choose to retire rather than face Arman Tsarukyan in a rematch have shocked the MMA world. This has elicited a strong response from fans and spawned a heated debate on social media platforms.

Fans have taken to social media sites, notably X, to vent their feelings on Hooker’s words. Many fight fans have taken issue with Hooker’s assertion that Makhachev may be avoiding a rematch with Tsarukyan owing to the perceived risk involved. On the other hand, other fight fans respect Hooker’s ability to freely express himself. Here are some of the reactions from fight fans:

Fans are anxiously expecting comments from Islam Makhachev himself, as the conflict develops. The online debate is sure to develop as more MMA fans weigh in on the issue, adding layers to the current story in the stacked lightweight division.

In case you missed it:

• WATCH: Khabib Nurmagomedov shares RARE video of late father taking down Islam Makhachev
• Dustin Poirier lays down requests to Dana White & Co for next fight after missing out on Islam Makhachev title fight

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