October 31, (THEWILL) – After another strong Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) performance, Islam Makhachev pressed his case for a title chance even further.
Makhachev, with a 21-win, 1-loss professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) record and a 10-1 UFC record, fought Dan Hooker on Saturday. Hooker was a last-minute replacement for Makhachev’s original opponent, former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos, who was injured.
But, Makhachev showed that there was nothing big enough to keep him from his push to challenge for the title challenge when he finished Hooker, with a 21-11 MMA, 11-7 UFC record, in a flash in their lightweight bout that took place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi as part of the UFC 267 main event.
The fight began with what appeared to be a feel-out as both fighters tried to find their range, but barely 40 seconds into the round, Makhachev hit a right hook, shot in for a takedown, and placed Hooker on his back.
Makhachev took over from there, staying heavy on top and aiming to isolate Hooker’s right arm. Hooker was unable to escape despite his best efforts to alter and oppose the attempt. Hooker’s other arm was locked beneath his body, so Makhachev stood over his head and cranked to seal the verbal surrender.
Makhachev had now made it nine wins in a row under the UFC banner, and he will most likely end the year with three victories. Makhachev defeated Drew Dober and Thiago Moises through submission earlier in 2021. Makhachev entered each contest as a favourite throughout his current run, proving the oddsmakers were correct.
In a swift turnaround after his unanimous decision victory over Nasrat Haqparast a month ago, Hooker fell short on Saturday. Hooker decided to fight Makhachev after dealing with work visa issues that made it difficult for him to travel to and from New Zealand.
During his post-fight interview, Makhachev made his intentions for his next outing loud and clear. “How many fights now, nine?” Makhachev asked. “Now I’m ready for a title shot.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
