Dustin Poirier vs. Dan Hooker for Fight of the Year

The return of the UFC amid the pandemic was heavily criticized by many. The UFC’s decision to move forward in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic was met with backlash and many external forces working tirelessly to shut down the UFC. As UFC President Dana White stated, “the show must go on.” 

The UFC has hosted 5 straight events at the Apex in Las Vegas and it would be hard to argue that the return of the UFC has not been a success. 

This is one of the best times to be a fight fan. All events have been spectacular. 

Last night, UFC on Espn 12 was another event that did not disappoint. The card was stacked top to bottom. On paper, this event was expected to be a banger. 

The card started off with a stand-up war. Sean Woodson and Julian Erosa were not interested in being cautious. A back and forth was that ended with a submission in the third round. 

Two fights ended in submission and two via judges’ decision. 

Dustin Poirer and Dan Hooker headlined the event and the fight was an instant classic. Both fighters gave it their all. A back and forth brawl that left both fighters in the hospital for small injuries. Luckily, both fighters were cleared. 

“I got checked out the hospital,” Hooker said in his statement. “Everything’s all good. Just a couple stitches on the eye, but that’s the game we play. No worries. It’s just a small setback and I’ll be back,” stated Dan “The Hangman” Hooker.

Image via @danhangman

We may have a new Fight of the Year candidate. Last week, the brawl between Josh Emmett and Shane Burgos was labeled by many as the Fight of the Year but it may have been dethroned by this one. 

Following his win, Dustin is now ranked No. 3 in the lightweight division. As expected, we are all wondering who is next for “the Diamond.”. 

Espn’s Ariel Helwani hinted Tony Ferguson is next. 

Damn!! Let me rest bruh!!!” Poirier responded to Helwani.

Image via @dustinpoirier

Is a title shot next for Poirier? Who do you want to Dustin fight next?