On the main card of UFC 267 we saw a tremendous lightweight contest between Dan “The Hangman” Hooker (21-10) and Islam Makhachev (20-1). Hooker was looking for his second win in just over a month while Makhachev was going for his eighth straight win.
The dream for AKA and Eagles MMA was for Islam Makhachev to take over for Khabib Nurmagomedov right after the former UFC lightweight champion retired and Makhachev just might be on his way. He’s 9-1 in the UFC and right now he looks like he could be one of if not the best in the world.
Standing in his way of another win today was the tough Dan Hooker. Last month, Hooker took on Nasrat Haqparast at UFC 266 and was able to pick up the decision win. After Rafael Dos Anjos pulled out of this UFC 267 matchup with Makhachev, Hooker immediately stepped up for this massive opportunity.
UFC 267 Recap
Round 1
The UFC 267 lightweight contest kicked off with a touch of the gloves. Hooker immediately looks for the jab as the two start. Front kick to the body from Hooker. Nice leg kick from Hooker as Makhachev is looking for an opening early.
Both men exchange jabs and Makhachev catches a kick from Hooker and takes him down. Makhachev settles in to halfguard and starts working to advance position. Knee to the body lands from Makhachev. Nice elbows land for Makhachev who keeps trying to advance.
Makhachev starts working for a kimura and Hooker is trying to defend. However, Makhachev locks it in and steps over. It’s deep and Hooker is forced to verbally tap and Makhachev gets another huge win at UFC 267.
Islam Makhachev def. Dan Hooker by Submission (Kimura) – Round 1