Tsarukyan Submits Hooker in Historic UFC Debut in Doha
Nov, 23 2025
The Ultimate Fighting Championship didn’t just bring fights to Doha—it brought history. On Saturday, November 22, 2025, the UFC Fight Night: DohaAli Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena became the first venue in Qatar to host a UFC event, marking the promotion’s 32nd country and third in the Middle East after the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The night belonged to Arman Tsarukyan, the Russian lightweight phenom, who choked out New Zealand’s Dan Hooker in the second round with a textbook rear-naked choke. It wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. And it capped off a night that redefined what’s possible for sports in the Gulf.
A Night Built for the Global Stage
The Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena, a sleek, 7,700-seat venue in the heart of Doha, buzzed with energy long before the first bell. Fans from over 60 countries packed the stands, many wearing jerseys of fighters they’d only ever seen on screens. The atmosphere wasn’t just electric—it was intimate. Unlike the cavernous arenas of Las Vegas or Abu Dhabi, this felt personal. The crowd roared with every takedown, every strike, every near-submission. And when Tsarukyan locked in the choke at 2:17 of Round 2, the arena erupted like it had just witnessed a World Cup final. The event was more than just fights. It was a collaboration between the Ultimate Fighting Championship and Visit Qatar, the nation’s tourism authority. Their goal? To show the world that Qatar isn’t just a host of mega-events—it’s a builder of them. "I’ve always said we’re going to take UFC all over the world—and Qatar is the next stop," said Dana White, UFC President and CEO, after the event. "This isn’t a one-off. This is the beginning."The Fight Card That Shook the Division
The 13-fight card delivered nonstop action. In the co-main event, Ireland’s Ian Machado Garry (16-1) outworked the seasoned Belal Muhammad (24-4) over five rounds, winning by unanimous decision in a tactical masterclass that silenced critics who doubted his stamina against elite competition. Switzerland’s Volkan Oezdemir (20-8) made a statement of his own, knocking out American Alonzo Menifield (17-5-1) with a brutal liver shot at 3:42 of Round 1. The crowd gasped. Then they cheered. Oezdemir’s win keeps him in title contention—and raises questions about whether he’s the dark horse the light heavyweight division has been waiting for. Meanwhile, Georgia’s rising star Alexander Topuria (6-1) continued his ascent, defeating Kazakhstan’s Bekzat Almakhan by unanimous decision. His calm, technical striking and footwork drew comparisons to Khabib Nurmagomedov—not because he fights the same way, but because he carries the same aura of inevitability.
Qatar’s Sporting Ambition Beyond the Octagon
This wasn’t just about MMA. It was about positioning Qatar as a global sports capital. After hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup and multiple Formula 1 Grand Prix races, UFC’s arrival signaled a broader strategy: to attract not just athletes, but fans. "We look forward to welcoming the UFC community and visitors from all around the world to Doha," said Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar. "This event highlights our capabilities—and strengthens our international partnerships." The logistics were flawless. The Gold Line of the Doha Metro dropped fans off at Al Sudan Station, a 10-minute walk from the arena. Streaming was handled by ESPN and ESPN+, with live coverage reaching over 700 million UFC fans globally. Ticket demand was so high that early registration on UFC.com sold out within hours—even though prices weren’t publicly disclosed.Why This Matters for the Future of UFC
Qatar’s debut opens a new frontier. The Middle East is no longer just a market—it’s a movement. With Saudi Arabia hosting UFC’s biggest pay-per-views and the UAE regularly featuring top-tier cards, Qatar now joins as a third pillar. But unlike its neighbors, Qatar brings something different: precision, infrastructure, and a clear vision for cultural tourism. The UFC’s global footprint now spans five continents. And with the organization eyeing events in Africa and Southeast Asia next, Doha’s success proves that audiences will follow the sport anywhere—if the experience is world-class. This event also raises a quiet question: Will we see a UFC Fight Island-style permanent venue in Qatar? The infrastructure is there. The political will is there. The fanbase? Growing by the day.
What’s Next?
The UFC has already confirmed it’s in talks to return to Qatar in 2026. Rumors suggest a potential UFC 300-style numbered event could be announced as early as next spring. Meanwhile, fighters like Tsarukyan and Garry are now firmly in title conversations. And for the first time, a Middle Eastern audience saw a UFC main event live—not on delay, not on highlights—but in real time, surrounded by the roar of a global crowd. It’s not just about who won. It’s about who’s watching. And now, the world is watching Qatar.Frequently Asked Questions
How did Arman Tsarukyan’s win impact his title chances?
Tsarukyan’s submission win over Dan Hooker, a seasoned veteran with 24 wins, solidifies him as a top contender in the UFC lightweight division. With his record now at 22-3, he’s positioned as the next challenger for the winner of the Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira bout. His technical grappling and relentless pressure have drawn comparisons to Khabib, making him a fan favorite and a serious threat to the belt.
Why is UFC’s presence in Qatar significant for the Middle East?
Qatar becomes the third Middle Eastern country to host a UFC event, following the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This signals a strategic regional push by the UFC to tap into the growing fanbase and infrastructure of the Gulf. Unlike previous events tied to state-backed investments, Qatar’s partnership with Visit Qatar emphasizes cultural tourism and long-term global branding, making it a sustainable model for future events.
What role did Visit Qatar play in making this event happen?
Visit Qatar coordinated logistics, international marketing, and fan engagement, leveraging its experience from the FIFA World Cup. They handled everything from visa facilitation for international fans to seamless public transport access via the Doha Metro. Their involvement wasn’t just logistical—it was promotional, turning the event into a showcase of Qatari hospitality and modern infrastructure for a global audience.
Could this lead to a permanent UFC venue in Qatar?
While no official plans have been announced, the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena’s state-of-the-art facilities, central location, and proven operational success make it a strong candidate. With UFC eyeing regional expansion and Qatar’s ambition to host recurring world-class events, a permanent Fight Island-style hub in Doha is a realistic possibility by 2027.
How did fans react to the event’s accessibility and organization?
Fans praised the seamless experience—from the efficient Doha Metro access to the multilingual staff and clean, modern facilities. Social media buzz highlighted the safety, cleanliness, and hospitality as standout features, especially compared to other international venues. Many international fans said they’d return for future events, calling it "the most well-run UFC show outside the U.S."
What does this mean for fighters from the region?
The event featured fighters from Tajikistan, Morocco, Turkey, and Kazakhstan, signaling UFC’s growing investment in regional talent. With local scouts now embedded in Doha and regional tryouts planned for 2026, this could be the launchpad for the first Middle Eastern UFC champion. The visibility alone is a game-changer for athletes who previously had to travel abroad to be seen.