The UFC lightweight division is undergoing major changes, with a long-standing champion stepping down and ‘El Matador’ claiming the title, intensifying the scramble for the top contender spot. Among those vying for a title shot is Dan Hooker, a Kiwi fighter who doubts Paddy Pimblett’s status as a serious UFC lightweight contender and explains why he would prefer not to face him next.

Hooker, currently ranked #6, has been sidelined since last August due to injuries, including a recurring arm fracture sustained in a fight against Mateusz Gamrot, a bout many considered a Fight of the Year candidate. Despite these setbacks, Hooker believes he still has enough to challenge for the belt or pursue a BMF (Baddest Mother F—-r) title.

However, Hooker voiced skepticism about Pimblett’s ability to push him to his best performance, stating that Pimblett does not match the caliber of other fighters who bring out his most intense efforts.

He keeps looking better than he looked before, but…like, he never really looked that good….No, I don’t think the guy’s that good and then it brings out the best of me when I fight like an actual good fighter; When they give me someone that I think I can beat or I think someone’s sh*t— then I fight sh*t! My mind subconsciously relaxes because I think they’re sh*t— and then I do sh*t I shouldn’t— and then they beat me… So I’d rather just fight the best guy…[rather than him].
—Dan Hooker, told Denis Shkuratov of the ‘Submission Radio’

Pimblett has cultivated a distinctive public image, showcasing his approachable personality and Liverpudlian charm. He has embraced his easy-going nature, signature hairstyle, and a party-ready anthem mix that includes ‘Lethal Industry’ by Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano and ‘Heads Will Roll’ by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. These traits combined have made him a major pay-per-view draw in the UK.

Despite Pimblett’s rising visibility and recent victories—including back-to-back Fight of the Year contenders and a straightforward third-round TKO finish—Hooker remains unconvinced by Pimblett’s skill level compared to other lightweight contenders, which influences why he does not see ‘The Baddy’ as a worthy opponent for his next fight.

Why Hooker Prefers Stronger Competition Over Pimblett’s Style

While a matchup between ‘Hangman’ Hooker and ‘The Baddy’ Pimblett would bring excitement for many fans, their fighting styles and personalities contrast sharply. Hooker has made it clear that Pimblett’s approach does not inspire him to perform at his highest, leading him to resist the idea of a fight with Pimblett anytime soon. This leaves Hooker searching for other, more challenging fights in the lightweight division.

He acknowledges the difficulty in establishing a clear number one contender in this overcrowded weight class, suggesting that this confusion might partly explain why no definitive title challenger has emerged yet.

UFC’s Strategy in Managing Lightweight Title Contenders

The top ranks of the UFC lightweight division include fighters like Justin Gaethje and Arman Tsarukyan, both pushing for recognition and a title shot. Tsarukyan has expressed willingness to take a more gradual path after withdrawing from a previous match, showing openness to fighting fight after fight to climb the ladder. He has shown interest in a title eliminator against Gaethje and was also open to facing Paddy Pimblett for a summer pay-per-view event.

Pimblett’s rapid rise and recent confrontation with the champion appear to have overlapped with these contenders’ timelines, complicating the picture. Meanwhile, Ilia Topuria believes Pimblett still needs at least one more win to solidify his place, while he himself is eager to break through the crowded division. Another major factor shuffling the lightweight ranks is Max Holloway, who has settled permanently at 155 pounds. Having defeated two former top contenders, Holloway is now considered a prime candidate for a title shot, with UFC president Dana White hinting that a rematch between Holloway and Topuria could headline a pay-per-view soon.

Dan Hooker suspects the UFC deliberately avoids naming a clear-cut number one contender to maintain negotiating leverage. With a field of fighters scrambling for the belt, the promotion benefits from flexibility and stronger bargaining positions when arranging bouts.

They [UFC] never paint themselves into a situation…[if and when] there’s a clear number one contender that has to fight for the belt. Because if they’re ever in that situation, then negotiations obviously become very difficult for them…If the fans are 100% locked and expecting that there’s only one guy that makes sense for the title, you’d think when they sit down and negotiate that the UFC’s in a strong position?
—Dan Hooker, further told Denis Shkuratov of the ‘Submission Radio’

Hooker notes that this strategy is consistent across multiple divisions, providing the organization with an advantage in contract talks. Fighters such as Khamzat Chimaev, who received repeated promises for a title shot, and Tom Aspinall, who had a claim for championship unification, have highlighted how negotiations can become complicated when a clear contender is established. By keeping the division open, the UFC makes it easier to manage title fight pricing and fight arrangements.

Lightweight Division: A Congested Path Toward the Title

The UFC lightweight landscape is congested with talent, each contender presenting a persuasive case for a shot at gold. Dan Hooker’s wariness toward fighting Paddy Pimblett stems not only from stylistic concerns but also from a broader uncertainty about the division’s hierarchy. With the division’s top prospects such as Gaethje, Tsarukyan, Topuria, and Holloway all eyeing championship opportunities, navigating the landscape is challenging for any fighter hoping to secure a title eliminator or direct title shot.

Hooker’s candid views on Pimblett emphasize the ongoing debate within the UFC community regarding who truly qualifies as a top lightweight contender. His reluctance to engage with Pimblett hints at deeper doubts about the rapid hype surrounding Pimblett’s rise and highlights the intensity of competition locked in at 155 pounds.

As the lightweight division continues to evolve with fresh challengers staking claims, the UFC’s strategic withholding of a clear number one contender prolongs negotiation dynamics and keeps fans guessing. Meanwhile, fighters like Hooker remain ready to step up—provided their next opponent pushes them to their limits and validates their title aspirations.