Conor McGregor has hinted that he may return to the octagon against Dan Hooker on February 1, 2025, at a UFC event in Saudi Arabia.
Despite a lengthy layoff, a serious leg injury, and losses in his recent fights, McGregor is still likely to be the favorite with bookmakers. His power, striking technique, and theoretical advantage with judges make him a dangerous opponent.
Dan Hooker has bounced back from defeats to Islam Makhachev and Arnold Allen, and he’s now riding a solid win streak. However, it’s doubtful whether he can withstand the pressure of McGregor’s still-quick, albeit slightly rusty, left hand.
Conor McGregor
- Record: 22-6-0
- Background: Former UFC lightweight and featherweight champion, the first UFC fighter to earn $1 million for a fight. Holds two of the fastest knockouts in MMA history: José Aldo in 13 seconds, Patrick Doherty in 4 seconds. Earned $30 million for his boxing match against Floyd Mayweather.
For the first time in years, a potential McGregor fight announcement hasn’t generated the same buzz, even frustrating some of his most loyal fans. It seems like Conor deliberately waited until Michael Chandler found another opponent to announce his comeback against Hooker, ranked fifth in the division.
What to Expect from McGregor Against Hooker
As usual, McGregor will look to close the distance and pressure Hooker in the first round, preparing to land his lethal left straight or hook. Dan will likely be on the defensive, trying to create space with counter jabs, but he’s bound to get caught with a couple of McGregor’s overhands.
Conor won’t rush for the knockout early on. He’ll aim to conserve his energy for the later rounds, likely ramping up the aggression around the third or fourth round. However, he’ll avoid any ground exchanges with Hooker, who could potentially catch him in a dangerous submission and end the fight early.
McGregor’s Path to Victory
Despite his current physical state, McGregor’s chances are strong. Hooker may feel the pressure and be hesitant to throw long combinations, always mindful of Conor’s left hand and low kicks.
McGregor has already proven that his leg is stronger than ever post-surgery, so he likely won’t worry about another break. Hooker’s long legs could be an ideal target for McGregor’s crushing low kicks, which might paralyze Hooker and force him into clinches.
McGregor’s strategy will be to measure Hooker’s range and then finish him with a well-timed combination.
Dan Hooker
- Record: 24-12-0
- Background: Former AFC and SFC South Pacific lightweight champion, brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, three UFC “Performance of the Night” and three UFC “Fight of the Night” awards.
Even after a three-fight win streak, Hooker has failed to impress MMA fans, who see his position in the UFC rankings with indifference. Not a big name in the media and previously overhyped, Hooker is still hanging on in the top five, though it seems unlikely he’ll be fighting for a title anytime soon.
For Hooker, this fight with McGregor is more about honoring his career and seizing a chance for a big payday.
What to Expect from Hooker Against McGregor
Hooker will need to survive a tough first few rounds, defending against McGregor’s quick strikes. He’ll try to slow Conor down with front kicks, but this approach won’t be without risk, as McGregor could catch his leg and either sweep him or land a long counter shot.
Hooker might test McGregor on the ground, but only if Conor initiates the wrestling by finding himself in a disadvantageous position. Dan won’t try to take McGregor down, knowing how well Conor can defend grappling when he’s still fresh.
Hooker’s Path to Victory
Hooker’s best strategy would be to drag McGregor into the later rounds and only become more active after the midpoint of the fight. McGregor has struggled with cardio before, especially during long training absences and personal distractions.
The problem with Hooker’s style is that he’s a straightforward brawler, always willing to trade punches, hoping to outlast his opponent. Given McGregor’s weaker chin nowadays, Hooker could land a significant blow that shakes the Irishman. However, before that happens, Hooker might absorb a heavy counter combo from Conor.
Conor McGregor vs. Dan Hooker Fight Prediction
We’ve always been skeptical about conspiracy theories in MMA, but McGregor’s recent choice of opponents and Hooker’s enthusiastic acceptance of a high-profile, money-making fight raise some eyebrows.
If the two agree on the “terms,” McGregor will likely secure the win and disappear again for a long break. His job is to show fans he’s still a dangerous fighter—a notion many doubted after his two losses to Dustin Poirier.
While Hooker isn’t quite the pushover that Donald Cerrone was for McGregor, he probably won’t pose too much of a threat to the former double champ. Plus, given McGregor’s current size and bulk, it’s unclear what weight class this fight will even take place in.
Even without speculating about fixed outcomes, Hooker faces a tough challenge. And though McGregor’s cardio might be lacking, Hooker’s isn’t built for a five-round fight either.