Tsarukyan Earns Statement Win with Second Round Submission
Arman Tsarukyan delivered a crucial victory at UFC Qatar on November 22, 2025 in Doha by submitting Dan Hooker with an arm triangle choke at 3:34 of round two. The lightweight contender looked sharp from the opening bell, using pressure, clean entries, and dominant grappling to overwhelm Hooker before locking in the finishing choke.
This win marks an important resurgence for Tsarukyan, who had previously been lined up for a title shot before injuries halted his momentum. His performance in Qatar reestablishes him among the top fighters in the lightweight division and strengthens his case for a future title eliminator or championship opportunity. Hooker showed resilience but struggled to counter Tsarukyan’s wrestling and top pressure once the fight was grounded.
Co Main Event: Ian Machado Garry Outpoints Belal Muhammad
In the co main event, Ian Machado Garry earned the biggest victory of his career by defeating Belal Muhammad by unanimous decision. The judges scored the bout 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28. Garry’s ability to control distance and dictate the striking exchanges ultimately separated him from the experienced Muhammad.
The win moves Garry closer to the top of the welterweight rankings and adds legitimacy to his rise through one of the UFC’s most competitive divisions.
Explosive Finishes Electrify the UFC Qatar Main Card
Volkan Oezdemir delivered one of the most memorable stoppages on the card with a knockout of Alonzo Menifield only 1:27 into round one. A powerful knee followed by punches ended Menifield’s night in emphatic fashion.
Myktybek Orolbai also made a major statement by knocking out Jack Hermansson at 2:46 of round one with a clean right hand behind the ear. The victory instantly boosts Orolbai’s stock in the welterweight division.
Veteran flyweight Kyoji Horiguchi secured a rear naked choke submission over Tagir Ulanbekov at 2:18 of round three. His technique and timing again confirmed his reputation as one of the most skilled fighters in the division.
In heavyweight action, Waldo Cortes Acosta knocked out Shamil Gaziev at 1:22 of round one, adding a fast finish to the growing list of heavyweight stoppages on the card.
UFC Qatar 2025 Main Card Results Table
| Matchup | Result |
|---|---|
| Arman Tsarukyan vs Dan Hooker | Tsarukyan def. Hooker via arm triangle choke, Round 2, 3:34 |
| Belal Muhammad vs Ian Machado Garry | Garry def. Muhammad via unanimous decision 30 27, 30 27, 29 28 |
| Volkan Oezdemir vs Alonzo Menifield | Oezdemir def. Menifield via KO, Round 1, 1:27 |
| Jack Hermansson vs Myktybek Orolbai | Orolbai def. Hermansson via KO, Round 1, 2:46 |
| Tagir Ulanbekov vs Kyoji Horiguchi | Horiguchi def. Ulanbekov via submission rear naked choke, Round 3, 2:18 |
| Waldo Cortes Acosta vs Shamil Gaziev | Cortes Acosta def. Gaziev via KO, Round 1, 1:22 |
What Tsarukyan’s Win Means for the Lightweight Title Picture
With his submission victory in Qatar, Arman Tsarukyan sends a clear message to the lightweight division. His mix of pressure striking and high level grappling makes him one of the most dangerous contenders in the top tier. Given his previous proximity to a title shot, this win could push him back toward a championship bout depending on upcoming divisional matchups.
Hooker remains a respected veteran and tough test for anyone in the top 15. Despite the loss, his experience ensures he will remain an important figure in future matchmaking.
The rest of the main card also showcased rising contenders and seasoned finishers. Ian Machado Garry’s win moves him toward the welterweight elite, while Oezdemir, Orolbai, Horiguchi and Cortes Acosta each issued performance statements that will influence their respective divisions in 2026.
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