New Zealand UFC star Dan Hooker will fight again in just one month's time after accepting an opportunity which could catapult him into contention for a shot at the lightweight title.
Dan Hooker Photo: Photosport
After ending a two-fight losing streak in impressive fashion in Las Vegas at the weekend, Hooker has agreed to step in and take on red-hot Russian contender Islam Makhachev in Abu Dhabi on October 30.
UFC president Dana White confirmed to ESPN that Hooker was replacing Brazilian Rafael dos Anjos, who was originally scheduled to face Makhachev at UFC 267 before being forced out of the fight with injury.
While it meant he was likely now stuck overseas for an indefeinte period, the bout presented a huge opportunity for the sixth-ranked New Zealander.
Ranked fifth, Makhachev was arguably the most talked-about fighter in the division in recent months having extended his winning streak to eight.
The 30-year-old, who was a protege of now retired Russian superstar Khabib Nurmagamedov, has 20 wins and just one defeat on his record.
Hooker, though, would go into the fight with renewed confidence after a dominant victory over rising German prospect Nasrat Haqparast at UFC 266 last weekend.
Despite being unable to train in a gym for a month leading into the bout, and visa issues meaning he arrived in the US with just two days to spare, Hooker shone on his way to a unanimous points decision.