UFC Qatar card set to feature Arman Tsarukyan squaring off against Dan Hooker, slated for November 22
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to make history with its debut event in Qatar on November 22. The UFC Qatar event, held at the Al Sadd Sports Club in Doha, marks the first time the UFC's iconic Octagon will be brought to Qatar, signifying the sport's growing global expansion and popularity in the Middle East.
The Qatar event follows in the footsteps of lofty cards staged in Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia, ensuring the region remains a centerpiece for some of the UFC's biggest international shows. This event is part of the UFC's expansion into the Middle East, further cementing the region's importance in the UFC's global strategy.
One of the main attractions of the UFC Qatar event is the lightweight clash between Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker. Tsarukyan, a rising star in the UFC, has emerged as one of the most dangerous young lightweights in the organisation. Known for his grappling-heavy style and relentless pressure, Tsarukyan presents a formidable challenge for any opponent. However, he is not a one-dimensional wrestler; he also excels in boxing combinations and cardio-driven pace.
Hooker, on the other hand, is a seasoned veteran known for his entertaining fighting style and ability to finish foes with knees, elbows, and long-range striking combinations. His career has been marked by fighting anyone, anywhere, and anytime, earning him a reputation among fans. Despite injuries that have hampered his career, Hooker is now healthy and ready for another run. A win over Tsarukyan could rejuvenate Hooker's career trajectory, potentially leading to another big-name matchup in early 2026.
The UFC Qatar event features several additional compelling matchups. For instance, the flyweight rematch between Albazi and Kara-France is especially noteworthy, as the winner would be in prime position to challenge for the flyweight belt. Another exciting pairing is Imavov vs. Craig and Lazzez vs. Price, both of which are likely to bring chaos, as both pairings carry knockout-or-submission finishes.
The lineup for UFC Qatar includes global representation, with fighters from Central Asia, France, New Zealand, and other regions. The event also boasts top-tier contenders and rising stars, showcasing the UFC's global ambitions.
UFC Qatar is expected to have major fanfare, blending the UFC's proven international event production with Qatar's appetite for striking sporting spectacles. This promises to be an event that fans will not want to miss.
In the co-main event, Rakhmonov's rising star power and Thompson's veteran savvy add a compelling draw. Evloev vs. Mitchell is a grappling-heavy featherweight matchup that could be a tactical chess match.
If Tsarukyan vs. Hooker officially headlines the event, fans can expect a blend of high-stakes fighting and crowd-pleasing action. Tsarukyan stands ready to stamp himself as a future title challenger, while Hooker seeks to remind the world of his resilience and finishing danger. This promises to be a fight that will captivate audiences and solidify the UFC's position in the Middle East.
