Arman Tsarukyan opens up on potential title bout with Dan Hooker

Arman Tsarukyan, the rising lightweight star in the UFC, recently shared his thoughts on a potential fight with Dan Hooker. If Tsarukyan’s scheduled lightweight title match against Islam Makhachev doesn’t materialize by the end of this year, he has expressed interest in an interim title bout against Hooker.

In a recent interview with Ushatayka, Tsarukyan was asked about accepting an interim title fight if Makhachev is unavailable for a December match. The 27-year-old fighter responded that the UFC might consider arranging an interim lightweight title clash between him and Hooker if the reigning champion remains sidelined until spring 2025. Tsarukyan emphasized his focus on Makhachev but acknowledged that he would shift attention to other opponents if necessary.

Dan Hooker’s Desire to Face Arman Tsarukyan

Hooker, on the other hand, wasted no time in expressing his desire to face Tsarukyan. In a backstage conversation with UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell, Hooker boldly stated, “I want to smash Arman’s face in. I will smash Arman for free.” Tsarukyan responded by downplaying Hooker’s callout, emphasizing that fighters often talk big on camera but behave differently in real-life situations.

⚡️Arman Tsarukyan says that the fight with Islam Makhachev could take place in December – in the USA.
If Islam cannot return to the octagon before spring, then Arman is ready to accept a fight for the temporary title (for example, with Dan Hooker).
🎥 YT Ushatayka ▫️ pic.twitter.com/O2T8ymIbSL
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) August 26, 2024

Arman Tsarukyan’s journey to the top contender spot involved a victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300, where he secured a split-decision win. However, he faced trouble after allegedly striking a fan on his way to the octagon, resulting in a fine and a nine-month suspension from the Nevada State Athletic Commission. If Arman Tsarukyan completes an anti-bullying public service message, his suspension could be reduced to six months, but he has declined to release such a video.

As the lightweight division continues to evolve, fans eagerly await potential matchups like Tsarukyan vs. Hooker. Whether it’s for the interim title or a regular bout, the clash between these two talented fighters promises excitement and drama inside the octagon.