The UFC wants Dan Hooker vs. Charles Oliveira next after UFC 305 victory

Dan Hooker, known for his resilience and fighting spirit, is once again making headlines in the MMA world with a potential showdown against former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira. Following his recent victory at UFC 305, Hooker has been vocal about his desire to face top-tier opponents, and Oliveira seems to be on his radar. However, the path to this fight is not without its challenges and controversies.

Dan Hooker, nicknamed “The Hangman,” has experienced a career resurgence after a series of setbacks. His recent split-decision victory over Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 305 not only earned him the ‘Fight of the Night’ bonus but also reignited his ambitions to climb the lightweight ranks. Hooker’s performance was a testament to his striking capabilities and tenacity, qualities that have made him a fan favorite.

In the aftermath of his victory, Hooker wasted no time in calling out several high-profile fighters, including Conor McGregor and Max Holloway. However, it is the prospect of facing Charles Oliveira that has captured the attention of the MMA community. Hooker hinted at ongoing discussions for a potential fight with Oliveira, although nothing has been officially confirmed yet.

The possibility of a fight between Hooker and Oliveira is intriguing for several reasons. Both fighters are known for their dynamic striking and submission skills, promising an exciting matchup. However, Oliveira’s recent comments on social media, where he jokingly referred to the rumored fight as a “metaverse joke,” suggest that he may not be fully committed to this bout.

The plot thickens with the feud between Dan Hooker and Arman Tsarukyan

Adding another layer of complexity to Hooker’s current situation is his ongoing feud with Arman Tsarukyan. Following his victory over Gamrot, Hooker did not hold back his disdain for Tsarukyan, whom he accused of trash-talking him for years. Hooker expressed a strong desire to face Tsarukyan in the octagon, stating that he wants to “smash” his face in a future matchup.

Tsarukyan was initially expected to face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title, but Makhachev had to turn down a possible October matchup after needing to heal a significant hand injury. Unless his hands heal in time for December it looks like Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan will not be happening until 2025.

As Dan Hooker navigates the complexities of his career, the potential fight with Charles Oliveira remains a tantalizing prospect. However, with Oliveira’s uncertainty and Hooker’s feud with Tsarukyan, the path forward is anything but straightforward. Hooker’s determination to face top contenders and his willingness to call out opponents demonstrate his commitment to cementing his legacy in the lightweight division.

Whether Hooker ultimately faces Oliveira, Tsarukyan, or another top-ranked fighter, his journey promises to be a captivating storyline for MMA fans. As the UFC continues to evolve, Hooker’s resilience and fighting spirit will undoubtedly keep him in the spotlight, with the potential to deliver more thrilling performances in the octagon.