Tsarukyan vs Hooker Prediction
👊 On November 22, the "ABHA Arena" in Doha, Qatar, will host the highly anticipated UFC Fight Night 265. The main event features a clash between Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker. This bout could determine the next title contender in the lightweight division. What can we expect from this showdown? Read on for our editorial team's prediction!
H2H Stats Fights and Previous Results
Arman Tsarukyan Player Overview
Arman Tsarukyan, a 29-year-old fighter representing Armenia, has been competing in Dana White's league since 2019. He has claimed victory in nine out of 11 bouts, showcasing remarkable progress. His only losses have come against top-tier fighters like Islam Makhachev and Mateusz Gamrot, which only underscores his high level of skill. In January, Tsarukyan was gearing up for a UFC lightweight title rematch against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311, but had to withdraw due to a back injury. Interestingly, in 2025, Arman shifted his focus to another aspect of combat sports, engaging in three successful grappling matches. In these contests, he secured wins against notable fighters such as Makkasharip Zainukov, Patricky Freire, and Benson Henderson.
Match Results: Arman Tsarukyan
Daniel Hooker Player Overview
Dan Hooker, the 35-year-old striker from New Zealand, joined the UFC in 2014 and has often been on the brink of a title shot, only to falter at the final hurdles. His record includes losses to renowned fighters such as Edson Barboza, Dustin Poirier, and Michael Chandler. The period from June 2020 to March 2022 was challenging for him, with four defeats in five bouts. However, since November 2022, Hooker has been in impressive form, securing consecutive victories over Claudio Puelles, Jalin Turner, and Mateusz Gamrot.
Match Results: Daniel Hooker
Latest news
Arman Tsarukyan
Tsarukyan on the upcoming fight:
"I don't like Hooker as a person. I think he's rotten, and I just want to punch him in the face. I'll do my best to channel these emotions into the fight, in the cage. I want to avoid any incidents before the fight. I don't like him. He's one of those fighters I can't stand, who talks a lot but doesn't back it up. We were supposed to fight back in June."
Daniel Hooker
Hooker on the upcoming fight:
"I don't like his face. I don't like that his face is attached to his body, I'd gladly separate them. I don't like this guy. I know nothing about him, but I hate everything associated with him. I can't wait to elbow him in the nose."
⭐ Editorial Prediction
Arman is the heavy favorite according to the bookmakers, and rightly so. Tsarukyan is quicker on his feet, physically stronger, and far more confident in grappling exchanges. However, Hooker is a seasoned veteran with nearly 40 professional fights under his belt. We believe Dan won't be an easy opponent and won't let Arman finish him off quickly. Especially considering Tsarukyan hasn't fought since April 2024 and will likely approach the fight cautiously. Therefore, we anticipate this bout to extend at least to the midway point.