5 potential opponents for Dan Hooker after latest setback at UFC London

#2. Dan Hooker vs. Edson 'Junior' Barboza 2

When Dan Hooker and Edson Barboza faced off at lightweight in 2018, it did not go so well for 'The Hangman.' Barboza stopped him in round three with a brutal body punch, having dominated the fight up to that point with a massive variety of vicious strikes.

UFC 262: Edson Barboza v Shane Burgos

Shortly after beating Hooker, Barboza made the move down to featherweight, where he has had mixed success. Impressive victories against Makwan Amirkhani and Shane Burgos saw him become an established top 15 featherweight, but losses to Bryce Mitchell, Giga Chikadze, and Dan Ige have kept him away from contender status.

Hooker's style has evolved significantly since their 2018 fight, and it would be a very logical matchup to make, considering both men are now on two fight losing streaks.

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#1. Dan Hooker vs. Shane 'Hurricane' Burgos

No.14 ranked UFC featherweight Shane Burgos would be an exceptional pick for Dan Hooker's next bout at 145lbs. The 'Hurricane' is an explosive striker with a chin of iron. His recent fight with Billy Quarantillo was one of the best displays of violence in 2021, unfortunately slightly overshadowed by Justin Gaethje vs. Michael Chandler.

UFC 244: Shane Burgos vs. Makwan Amirkhani

Burgos also has big wins over the likes of Makwan Amirkhani, Cub Swanson, and Charles Rosa. A back-and-forth war with Josh Emmett in 2020 was another bout that has resulted in Burgos gaining a similar cult following to that of Hooker.

Two fan favorites throwing down in the middle of the octagon in front of thousands of supporters is surely an extremely enticing prospect for the UFC. It would also allow Hooker the chance to re-establish himself into the top 15 of the division.