Full Breakdown
UFC Qatar: Tsarukyan vs. Hooker Main Event Set for November 22
10/2/2025, 5:45:05 AM
Key Matchups Announced for UFC Qatar
UFC Qatar is poised to make its debut on November 22, 2025, at the Ali Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah Arena in Doha. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that the event will feature a highly anticipated lightweight main event between Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker, alongside a co-main event featuring former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad against rising contender Ian Machado Garry.
Arman Tsarukyan, currently ranked No. 2 in the lightweight division with a record of 22 wins and 3 losses, is looking to solidify his position for a title shot after a four-fight winning streak, which includes a split-decision victory over former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024. Tsarukyan was previously scheduled to challenge Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 311 but had to withdraw due to a back injury just before the fight.
Dan Hooker, ranked No. 6, enters the octagon with a record of 24 wins and 12 losses. He is also on a three-fight winning streak, with his last victory coming against Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 305 in August 2024. Hooker has faced setbacks due to injuries but has expressed a strong desire to compete against Tsarukyan, viewing this matchup as a critical opportunity to re-enter the title conversation.
Co-Main Event: Muhammad vs. Garry
The co-main event will see Belal Muhammad (24-4, 1 NC), a former welterweight champion, face Ian Machado Garry (16-1). Muhammad is looking to rebound after losing his title to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 in May, which ended an 11-fight unbeaten streak. Garry, ranked No. 6 in the welterweight division, is coming off a victory over Carlos Prates and aims to position himself for a title shot.
Both fighters in the co-main event have significant stakes, as the winner could potentially challenge for the welterweight title against the victor of the upcoming bout between Maddalena and Makhachev at UFC 322.
Implications for Title Shots
The outcomes of these matchups carry substantial implications for the lightweight and welterweight divisions. A decisive victory for either Tsarukyan or Hooker could position them as the next contender for the lightweight title currently held by Ilia Topuria, who won the belt after Makhachev vacated it. Similarly, the winner of Muhammad vs. Garry could find themselves in line for a shot at the welterweight championship.
Official Statements & Responses
Dana White emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “I’ve always said we’re going to take UFC all over the world — and Qatar is the next stop.” He highlighted the growing interest in the Middle East for UFC events, noting that Qatar has previously hosted major sporting events.
What's Next
UFC Qatar is set to be a landmark event for the organization, marking its first foray into Qatar. The fight card is expected to feature additional matchups, with the full lineup to be finalized in the coming weeks. Fans can look forward to a night of high-stakes competition as fighters vie for title opportunities in their respective divisions.
