UFC Debuts in Doha: Tsarukyan vs. Hooker

The UFC will make its debut in Qatar on Nov. 22 at the Ali Bin Hamad al-Attiyah (ABHA) Arena in Al Rayyan/Doha, Dana White announced via Instagram Live. The main event is a lightweight bout between No. 2 Arman Tsarukyan (22–3) and No. 6 Dan Hooker (24–12), a matchup that could reshape the 155-pound title picture. Tsarukyan last fought at UFC 300, defeating Charles Oliveira by split decision, and has been told he likely must win again to secure another title opportunity; Hooker is returning from hand injuries and has been sidelined since August 2024 despite a recent three-fight win streak. The co-main pits former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad against Ian Machado Garry, with the winner positioned to press for a title shot amid potential matchups involving Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev. The card marks the UFC's expansion into the Middle East, and the full fight card will be announced in the coming weeks.