Dan Hooker Discusses Possible Oliveira Fight
Dan Hooker said the UFC was looking at a lightweight bout with former champion Charles Oliveira as a possible next fight. Hooker discussed the matchup after his split-decision win over Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 305, describing Oliveira as a strong opponent while leaving room for other options.
Hooker leaves the door open
Hooker had just earned a hard-fought win in Perth that moved him back into the lightweight conversation. In a post-fight interview, he said the UFC had raised Oliveira as a possible matchup. Hooker called it a good fight but also made clear that he was open to other challenges.
Oliveira, a former undisputed champion and one of the division’s leading finishers, would offer a different test from Gamrot. Hooker is known for long-range striking and durability; Oliveira brings dangerous submissions and aggressive pressure. Their styles made the idea attractive, but stylistic appeal alone did not make it official.
A possible matchup, not a booking
At the time of Hooker’s comments, the UFC had not announced a date, venue or contract for Hooker versus Oliveira. The lightweight division also had several contenders seeking high-profile fights, so the reported conversation was one possible direction for the winner of the Gamrot bout rather than a confirmed next assignment.
The matchup remained speculative until the promotion made an announcement. Hooker’s comments showed his interest and what he understood the UFC to be considering, while Oliveira’s next opponent was still to be determined.
Sources: MMA Fighting; Sherdog.
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Tags: MMA
