The UFC 325 co-main event, Dan Hooker vs Benoit Saint-Denis, stands as one of the most compelling lightweight matchups on the card.
Scheduled for January 31, 2026, at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, this fight has fight fans and bettors buzzing about styles, momentum, and who will walk away with the win.
In this article, we break down both fighters’ careers, strengths and weaknesses, head-to-head factors, and make a prediction on how the fight might unfold at this highly anticipated event.
Fighter Profiles: Experience Meets Momentum
Dan Hooker: The Veteran Warrior
Dan “The Hangman” Hooker is a seasoned lightweight veteran and former kickboxer from New Zealand who competes in the UFC’s Lightweight Division.
Born on February 13, 1990, Hooker has compiled a professional MMA record of 24-13-0 over a long and durable career across multiple promotions before and during his time in the UFC.
Hooker’s trademark is his toughness and durability, traits that have defined many of his toughest fights against top contenders in the division.
He combines striking power with experience, pacing fights across three to five rounds. With 11 wins by KO/TKO and 7 by submission, Hooker is dangerous in all facets of the game.
However, recent outings have seen a dip in his momentum. A submission loss to Arman Tsarukyan was a setback, and Hooker has not found the same consistency in finishing fights as he did earlier in his career.
Benoit Saint-Denis: The Rising Force
Benoit Saint-Denis, nicknamed “God of War,” is a French lightweight contender with a professional record of 16-3-0. Saint-Denis brings a background in military discipline and an aggressive fighting style to the cage.
At UFC 322, Saint-Denis delivered one of the most explosive wins of his career by stopping veteran contender Beneil Dariush in just 16 seconds, showcasing his power and precision striking.
Statistically, Saint-Denis is highly active on the feet, landing over 5 significant strikes per minute with an accuracy rate above 50%.
He also absorbs a fair number of strikes, but his high pace typically overwhelms opponents before defensive vulnerabilities become relevant.
Key Strengths and Styles
Hooker’s Striking & Durability
Hooker is comfortable in extended battles. His striking output is measured, and his kickboxing background gives him a diverse set of striking tools.
Hooker also has plenty of championship-level experience, having fought elite contenders throughout his career.
His ability to absorb damage and stay competitive late into fights makes him a constant threat.
However, Hooker has shown signs of wear. His recent losses suggest that his output and finishing threat have diminished compared to earlier stages of his career.
This could allow a relentless opponent like Saint-Denis to put pressure from start to finish.
Saint-Denis’ Pressure & Finishing Ability
Saint-Denis is a pressure fighter who forces engagements and looks to capitalize quickly. His 16-second knockout of Dariush underlined not just power, but his ability to seize opportunities early.
His southpaw stance and aggressive forward movement disrupt rhythm and make him dangerous in exchanges.
Another significant advantage comes from his youth and ascendant trajectory within the lightweight rankings.
Saint-Denis has been sharpening his skills and growing more confident with each victory, making him a rising star in the division.
Tactical Matchup: How Might This Fight Play Out?
Round 1: Fast Start or Patience?
Saint-Denis is likely to push the pace early, aiming to impose his striking volume and secure a finish before Hooker settles into his rhythm.
A quick flurry or a high-impact strike could give Saint-Denis a fast start. Hooker, on the other hand, is expected to maintain distance, use leg kicks, and look for clean counters to discourage reckless aggression.
Mid-Fight: Adjustments and Cardio
If the fight extends past the first round, Hooker’s durability and cage IQ give him a chance to control the pace.
He has faced nearly every style in the lightweight division, and his ability to mix striking with takedown threats may slow Saint-Denis’ forward pressure.
Saint-Denis’ cardio and high output are favorable factors, especially in the middle rounds. If he keeps the pressure and avoids significant damage early, he could begin to dominate with volume.
Late Rounds: Championship-Level Endurance
Towards the championship rounds’ close, experience versus youth could be a deciding factor.
Hooker’s fight savvy and ability to adapt could take him through troubled waters, but Saint-Denis may have a tougher time fastening his output if he expends too much energy early.
Predictions: Who Has the Advantage?
Analyst and fan predictions currently lean heavily in favor of Benoit Saint-Denis, reflecting his recent momentum and finishing ability.
Community picks show a strong preference for Saint-Denis winning, particularly by stoppage.
Likely Outcome Scenarios
1. Saint-Denis by KO/TKO
Given his recent explosive finishes and high-pressure style, Saint-Denis could overwhelm Hooker early and score a finish in the opening rounds.
2. Saint-Denis via Decision
If Hooker survives the early storm, Saint-Denis’ volume and forward aggression could carry him through to a points victory.
3. Hooker by Decision
This is a less likely outcome, but if Hooker successfully neutralizes Saint-Denis’ pressure and controls range, he could win on experience and tactical discipline.
Final Prediction
Benoit Saint-Denis wins by late-round stoppage or decision.
His momentum, finishing ability, and high striking output present major challenges for the veteran Hooker.
Saint-Denis’ recent form and aggressive fight style give him the edge on fight night, though Hooker’s heart and experience ensure this will not be a one-sided affair.
Closing Thoughts
The Hooker vs Saint-Denis matchup at UFC 325 is more than just another fight; it is a crossroads between seasoned experience and rising potential.
Fans can expect a relentless pace, engaging striking exchanges, and tactical battles spanning all rounds.
This fight promises to be a highlight of an already exciting UFC event in Sydney, Australia, and with both fighters hungry for victory, it might deliver one of the most entertaining co-main events of the year.