Getting into the UFC is just the start of the journey: Dan Hooker

By the time Dan Hooker walks into the Octagon, fans already know what to expect: violence, grit and an uncompromising pace. Nicknamed “The Hangman,” the Auckland-born lightweight has carved out a reputation as one of the UFC’s most battle-tested strikers — a dangerous mix of long-range kickboxing, durability and hard-earned experience.A fixture in the UFC since 2014, Hooker’s career has been defined by consistency and a willingness to face elite competition. Over more than a decade in professional MMA, he has evolved from an action-heavy brawler into a seasoned contender capable of adapting across three or five rounds.For Hooker, however, reaching the UFC is often misunderstood by young fighters.“I feel like getting into the UFC is just the start of the journey,” he says. “A lot of young fighters think they develop outside the UFC and then come in as their final version. But you have to keep improving and keep adding new things. It’s like getting a black belt in jiu-jitsu — it’s not the end of the road, it’s the start of a new journey.”While fans primarily view him as a feared striker, Hooker insists his love for MMA lies in its variety.“I enjoy all aspects of MMA,” he explains. “Sometimes I fall in love with striking, then jiu-jitsu, then wrestling. That’s the beauty of mixed martial arts — you’ve got so many different toys that you can pick up and sharpen.”One of the defining moments of his career came in his five-round classic against Dustin Poirier, a bout widely regarded as a modern UFC masterpiece. Hooker admits that night reshaped his understanding of pressure.“You come in as a hungry young kid competing against a savvy veteran that’s been there before,” he reflects. “It was a lot of lessons learned. But like any lesson, it’s invaluable to success and growth.”Family has added another layer to his journey, though it hasn’t softened the realities of the profession.“This is how I support my family,” Hooker says. “I’ve been a professional since I was 19. I can’t say they’re the biggest fans of what I do — they’d prefer me having a normal job — but this is something I chose.”Asked who inspires him beyond in-cage skills, Hooker points to Alexander Volkanovski. “He’s a stand-up bloke. Probably the nicest, friendliest person you’ll ever meet.”As for titles and legacy, Hooker remains pragmatic.“I feel like the title just comes with good performances,” he says, adding that a big win this weekend could put him right back into contention. And when it’s all over?“I’m not a big legacy guy,” he shrugs. “As long as I can leave this with my head held high, that’s all that matters.”For New Zealand’s Hangman, growth — not glory — continues to drive the fight.