Dan Hooker: Pereira is the Fighter of the Year, Topuria Took the Safe Rout

Recently, Dan Hooker, one of the UFC’s most fearless fighters, set the MMA world ablaze with his take on who should win the “Fighter of the Year” title. While the world of MMA has been in awe of rising stars like Ilia Topuria, Hooker boldly named Alex Pereira as the standout fighter of the year. And to spice things up, he added that Topuria had taken the “safer route” instead of facing the biggest challenges. Let’s dive into what makes this take so intriguing and why it’s both eye-opening and hilarious.

Pereira – The “Scary Guy” of the UFC

Alex Pereira, the former UFC middleweight champion and one of the most feared opponents in the sport, had a year that left everyone talking. Not only did he famously defeat Israel Adesanya, but his performances throughout the year have shown he’s capable of ending fights with jaw-dropping power. Sure, there were some close calls, but his raw power and technique are undeniable.

Dan Hooker, never one to shy away from controversy, made a point that Pereira deserved to be crowned “Fighter of the Year” due to his impressive skill set and the high-stakes battles he’s fought. But it’s more than just a claim to fame—it’s a shout-out to those who dare to go the distance. Hooker’s statement underlined that Pereira’s career has been defined not just by victories but by how hard he’s been willing to push himself.

Topuria – A Long Road Without Risks?

But there’s a name that didn’t quite sit well with Hooker: Ilia Topuria. With an undefeated record and a string of impressive performances, Topuria has been called one of the brightest prospects in the sport. However, Hooker argued that Topuria had chosen the “safer route.” This isn’t just a jab about Topuria’s skill; it’s about the difference between fighters who dare to take risks and those who play it safe.

“Topuria is a talented fighter and has a bright future. But if he truly wants to prove he’s among the greatest, he needs to take on bigger challenges, not just rack up wins against easier opponents,” Hooker said. This isn’t just about building a record; it’s about the kind of legacy you want to leave behind in the ruthless world of MMA.

Why Pereira Deserves It

Pereira isn’t just a fighter; he’s an icon of fearlessness in MMA. From his background in kickboxing to his journey in the UFC, he’s shown that his striking ability is something that even veteran fighters respect. His knockout power is legendary, and it’s that ability to finish fights that makes him a unique threat. This year, he didn’t just talk the talk; he walked the walk, putting away top opponents like Adesanya and proving that he deserves to be recognized as the best of the year.

Can Topuria Find His Path?

Ilia Topuria has all the makings of a superstar. He’s skilled, strategic, and has a winning mentality. But Hooker’s point is that to truly be in the conversation with the likes of Pereira or other top fighters, Topuria needs to face challenges that push him beyond his comfort zone. That means stepping up and going toe-to-toe with the elite, not just cruising through easier fights.

Is Dan Hooker Calling Out Anyone?

Hooker’s comments about Topuria taking the safe route might sound harsh, but they point to a truth that MMA fans understand all too well: greatness is measured by who you fight and how you fight them. While Topuria is undoubtedly talented, he hasn’t faced the kind of high-risk, high-reward battles that define a fighter’s legacy.

In contrast, Alex Pereira has proven that he’s more than just a fighter with power; he’s a fighter who takes risks and delivers when it matters. So, when it comes to the “Fighter of the Year” award, Pereira has set himself apart. Topuria? He might be the future star, but he needs to be willing to take that leap and fight the fights that will make him legendary.