The UFC steps into Qatar for the first time on November 22 at the Ali Bin Hamad al-Attiyah Arena, headlined by a lightweight clash between Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker.
Main Event: Tsarukyan vs Hooker
Arman Tsarukyan (22-3) comes off a four-fight winning streak and a split-decision victory over Charles Oliveira in April 2024. Although he earned a title shot against Islam Makhachev, he had to withdraw from UFC 311 due to a back injury. Tsarukyan also made weight as the backup fighter for UFC 317 but was not needed.
Tsarukyan, ranked No. 2 at lightweight, now faces No. 6 Dan Hooker (24-12), who is on a three-fight winning streak, most recently defeating Mateusz Gamrot via split decision at UFC 305.
🚨 BREAKING: #UFCQatar is shaping up to be a BIG one! 😤@ArmanUfc vs @DanTheHangman@Bullyb170 vs @IanGarryMMA
🇶🇦🎟️ : Get your tickets THIS FRIDAY!
🚨 عاجل: حدث حماسي في #UFCQatar 😤@ArmanUFC ضد @DanTheHangman @Bullyb170 ضد @IanGarryMMA
🇶🇦🎟️ ستطرح التذاكر يوم الجمعة ٣… pic.twitter.com/uS6B6K5rQV
— UFC (@ufc) October 1, 2025
Co-Main Event: Muhammad vs Garry
A key welterweight matchup will see former champion Belal Muhammad (24-4, 1 NC) taking on No. 6 contender Ian Machado Garry (16-1). Muhammad lost his belt to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 and aims to rebound, while Garry recovered from his first career defeat by defeating Carlos Prates. A win for Garry positions him for a potential title shot.
Tsarukyan and Hooker’s Path to Qatar
- Arman Tsarukyan: Four-fight winning streak, previous title shot withdrawn due to injury, UFC 317 backup.
- Dan Hooker: Three consecutive victories, recent split decision win over Mateusz Gamrot.
Both bring skill, experience, and momentum into the main event.
Stakes and Implications
- Tsarukyan: Victory could lead to another title opportunity.
- Hooker: Extending his winning streak solidifies his place among top contenders.
- Muhammad: Rebuilding his standing after losing the belt is critical.
- Garry: A win against a former champion could secure a welterweight title shot.
UFC Fight Night 265 promises an exciting night as the UFC debuts in Qatar with high-stakes fights for both lightweight and welterweight divisions.
