LAS VEGAS – Chase Hooper believes that his grappler vs. grappler battle with Jordan Leavitt at UFC Fight Night 232 met expectations, and he expresses a desire for more contests of similar nature in the future.
Hooper (13-3-1 MMA, 5-3 UFC) swiftly defeated Leavitt (11-3 MMA, 4-3 UFC) in the lightweight bout at the UFC Apex, securing a rear-naked choke in the opening round, propelling him to a 2-0 record since transitioning from featherweight earlier this year.
The grappling exchanges between the two fighters were intense from the outset, with Hooper ultimately displaying superior technique to claim the win.
“I was anticipating a lengthier and more challenging fight,” Hooper said at the post-fight news conference. “But I managed to secure it early, and that’s a win, obviously. … I always surprise myself when I come out with a finish, or a win in general. I always enter with a more pessimistic mindset and then like to shock myself by coming out on top. (I) can’t really ask for a better outcome than that.”
While matchups between two grapplers can sometimes lead to a stalemate, Hooper is eager to engage with anyone on the mat. He is keen to explore more success with these types of contests, highlighting Claudio Puelles (12-3 MMA, 5-2 UFC) as a fitting next opponent due to their shared background in grappling.
“I’d like to face someone like Claudio Puelles,” Hooper added. “He defeated Jordan by decision and also has a kneebar win over Clay Guida. I just defeated Jordan tonight, and I have a calf slicer victory over Clay in a grappling match. Still, I would love to fight another fighter who excels at leg locks – another big jiu-jitsu guy in the division. Tonight is the perfect example. Those are fun matchups, and I think they’re exciting to watch. It’s a style of grappling people can get behind.”
Even if he doesn’t secure a bout with Puelles, Hooper aims to compete as frequently as possible in 2024. With his wife expecting their first child and the due date looming, Hooper’s desire to provide for his growing family has further motivated him to seek more opportunities to compete.
“I’ve got to start earning a bit more of that dad money,” Hooper expressed. “I’d like to be a bit more active, especially here at ’55 where I don’t have to cut as hard. I aim to secure three fights.”
For more on the event, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 232.
Sarah Foster is your guide to the world of Mixed Martial Arts. With a deep understanding of MMA’s intricacies and a passion for the sport, she offers comprehensive coverage of MMA events, fighter profiles, and in-depth analysis of fights. Sarah’s commitment to the octagon ensures that readers stay engaged with the latest developments in the MMA world.
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