Famous Russian fighter and Force FC league head Alexandr Shabliy shared in an exclusive interview with Telecomasia.net his prediction for Arman Tsarukyan’s fight against Dan Hooker, scheduled for November 22 at the UFC event in Qatar.
"I think Arman has a better chance against Hooker because his technical arsenal is bigger. I’ve sparred a lot with Tsarukyan, so I believe he is prepared for the punches and kicks that Dan uses. The New Zealander has a classical kickboxing skill set. I think Arman will work at a distance and look to take the fight to the ground to dominate him there. Dan’s wrestling isn’t strong enough to defend against Tsarukyan’s takedown attempts.
"Though Tsarukyan is shorter, he has a long reach. I recall the fight between Gamrot and Hooker. The Pole fought without a previous acclimatization and looked tired despite good takedown attempts. That fight gave the impression Hooker had improved his wrestling, but I’m not convinced he can defend from Tsarukyan’s takedowns.," Shabliy said.
I trained with Arman and Mateusz earlier this year and I can say Tsarukyan’s wrestling has improved. This is a completely different Arman compared to the one who fought Gamrot.
Tsarukyan vs. Hooker will headline the UFC event in Qatar on November 22.
Tsarukyan last fought on April 13, 2024, at UFC 300, winning by split decision over Charles Oliveira. His record stands at 22 wins and 3 losses.
Hooker’s last bout was on August 17, 2024, at UFC 305, where he won by split decision over Mateusz Gamrot. He has 24 wins and 12 losses.
