The MMA Daily

This is excellent matchmaking, as both men are dangerous strikers. Dan Hooker uses his range well, often landing his full kickboxing arsenal from the outside. While Hooker lacks power, he makes up for it with high output, technique and precision. Of ‘The Hangman’s’ ten UFC victories, six have come via knockout. Nasrat Haqparast too knows something about flatlining opponents, as nine of his thirteen professional victories have come via knockout. However, Haqparast’s power hasn’t translated well in the UFC yet. Only once in five bouts inside the octagon has Haqparast stopped anyone. 

As for a prediction, I’m siding with Hooker. It’s hard not to express concern over the amount of punishment he’s endured in the UFC. The fact that Chandler put him down, being the second time ever in the UFC that happened only enhances that concern. However, I still believe in Hooker’s durability. I mean, we are talking about a guy who absorbed a combined 263 significant strikes against Paul Felder and Dustin Poirier. While I can see Haqparast’s speed and power being problematic for Hooker, it’s nothing new from what he’s already seen. With pace, pressure, high output and a nasty clinch, I believe Hooker gets the job done. So with all that said, in what has the ingredients to be a barnburner, I predict Hooker will win via decision.

Pick: Dan Hooker