Arman Tsarukyan returns to the UFC in November after a crisis with the organization and a serious injury; see rival

Arman Tsarukyan dropped out of the title fight in UFC 311 due to injury. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

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After more than a year away from the octagon and a series of frictions, Arman Tsarukyan has a date set for his long-awaited return. Executioner of Charles of the Bronx, the Armenian faces Dan Hooker on November 22nd at UFC Qatar, an event to be held in Doha. The announcement was made by Dana White on social media.

The fight will be the main attraction of the night and promises to directly impact the fight for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg) in 2026. Tsarukyan also comes into the fight under pressure to reposition himself within the organization after a turbulent period behind the scenes.

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Arman experienced a moment of ascension in 2024, crowned with the victory over Charles of the Bronx in April of that year. The triumph elevated him to the division's elite and established him as the official challenger for the lightweight belt, with a fight scheduled against the champion Islam makhachev No. UFC 311.

However, on the eve of the event, Tsarukyan suffered a spinal injury and had to withdraw. The decision sparked strong dissatisfaction among UFC leaders, especially president Dana White, who publicly stated that the Armenian had "missed his place" in the title race.

Since then, the relationship between the fighter and the organization has been strained. Tsarukyan even complained about the fight offers he received after his recovery, suggesting they were below the level he expected.

Grappling and frustration while waiting for a new fight

No immediate space in the UFC, Arman Tsarukyan He remained active by participating in grappling events in May and September 2025. Even so, he did not hide his frustration at not being able to get another fight in MMA, even though he was medically cleared.

Even though the UFC hasn't officially labeled the fight an eliminator, a convincing victory over Dan Hooker should put the fighter back on the immediate radar of the title that belongs to Ilia Topuria.

Dan Hooker also returns after a series of injuries

On the other side, Dan Hooker also has a recent history of physical challenges. After being assigned to face Justin gaethje No. UFC 313, in February of this year, the New Zealander had to retire due to a fractured hand during training.

The injury was just another in a worrying sequence. Between 2023 and 2024, the fighter faced recurring physical problems, including broken bones in his arm and new fractures in his hand. The incidents forced the cancellation of fights against jalin turner e Bobby Green, in addition to surgery and months of recovery.