A Rising Star in Mixed Martial Arts
Chase Hooper, nicknamed “The Dream,” captivates fans with his electrifying performances in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Born on September 13, 1999, in Enumclaw, Washington, this lightweight fighter blends Brazilian jiu-jitsu mastery with relentless determination. At just 25 years old, Hooper has already carved a notable path in the MMA world, showcasing his potential to become a future champion. This article dives into his journey, recent achievements, fighting style, and what lies ahead for this dynamic athlete.
Hooper’s story resonates with aspiring fighters. He began his martial arts journey as a teenager, competing as an amateur while still in high school. His rapid rise from regional circuits to the UFC highlights his talent and work ethic. Moreover, his ability to overcome early career setbacks has solidified his reputation as a resilient competitor. Let’s explore how Hooper became a fan favorite and why 2025 marks a pivotal year for his career.
Early Life: Roots in Enumclaw
Chase Hooper grew up in the small town of Enumclaw, nestled near Washington’s Cascade Mountains. His parents encouraged his athletic pursuits, introducing him to sports at a young age. Hooper discovered martial arts early, training in local gyms where he honed his skills. This supportive community fostered his competitive spirit, laying the foundation for his future success.
As a teenager, Hooper excelled in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, earning a juvenile Pan American championship as a blue belt. His dedication to grappling set him apart from peers. While attending Enumclaw High School, he balanced academics with an amateur MMA career, compiling an undefeated 5-0 record. These early victories showcased his potential, catching the attention of regional promoters.
Transitioning to professional MMA at 18, Hooper faced Edson Penado on October 7, 2017. He secured a first-round rear-naked choke submission, signaling his readiness for bigger stages. His small-town upbringing instilled a strong work ethic, which continues to drive his pursuit of greatness. Consequently, Hooper’s early experiences shaped him into a disciplined and focused fighter.
Breaking into the UFC: A Meteoric Rise
Hooper’s professional debut marked the beginning of a rapid ascent. After his initial win, he competed on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2018, facing Canaan Kawaihae. He dominated with a unanimous decision victory, earning a UFC development league contract. Subsequently, he fought in promotions like CFFC and Titan FC, securing two wins and a draw before signing with the UFC.
On December 14, 2019, Hooper debuted at UFC 245 against Daniel Teymur. At just 20 years old, he stunned the MMA world with a first-round technical knockout. This victory announced his arrival as a serious contender. However, his next fight against Alex Caceres at UFC 250 in June 2020 tested his resilience. Caceres outclassed him, resulting in a unanimous decision loss—Hooper’s first professional defeat.
Undeterred, Hooper faced Peter Barrett at UFC 256 in December 2020. Trailing after two rounds, he staged a dramatic comeback, submitting Barrett with a heel hook in the third. This win showcased his ability to adapt under pressure. Furthermore, it earned him widespread praise, with commentators noting his potential despite his youth. Hooper’s early UFC tenure demonstrated his knack for thrilling finishes and his willingness to learn from setbacks.
Evolving as a Fighter: The Lightweight Transition
Initially competing in the featherweight division (145 pounds), Hooper faced challenges against larger opponents. His 3-3 record in his first six UFC fights prompted a significant change. In 2023, he moved to the lightweight division (155 pounds), a decision that revitalized his career. The extra weight allowed him to compete more effectively, leveraging his grappling without sacrificing strength.
Hooper’s lightweight debut came against Nick Fiore at UFC Fight Night on May 20, 2023. He dominated with a unanimous decision, displaying improved striking and confidence. Next, he faced Jordan Leavitt at UFC Fight Night on November 18, 2023, securing a first-round rear-naked choke submission. This victory highlighted his grappling prowess and marked the beginning of a winning streak.
On May 11, 2024, Hooper faced Viacheslav Borshchev at UFC on ESPN. He submitted Borshchev with a D’Arce choke in the second round, earning a Performance of the Night bonus. This fight showcased his ability to blend striking with submissions, a testament to his evolving skill set. Consequently, Hooper’s lightweight transition has positioned him as a dangerous contender in a stacked division.
2024-2025: A Career-Defining Period
The years 2024 and 2025 have been pivotal for Hooper. On December 7, 2024, he faced Clay Guida at UFC 310. Hooper submitted the veteran with a stunning armbar in the first round, earning another Performance of the Night bonus. This victory solidified his status as a rising star and showcased his ability to defeat seasoned opponents. Fans and analysts alike praised his technical precision and composure.
On April 12, 2025, Hooper faced UFC legend Jim Miller at UFC 314 in Miami. Despite a slow-paced fight, he secured a unanimous decision victory, dominating with grappling. Post-fight, Hooper humorously attributed his lackluster performance to overtraining, a comment that amused fans. This win extended his winning streak to five, boosting his ranking to #30 in the UFC lightweight division.
Additionally, Hooper’s grappling competitions have kept him sharp. He competed against Renato Moicano at Fury Pro Grappling 3 in 2021, losing by unanimous decision. In 2022, he submitted Clay Guida with a calf-slicer at Fury Pro Grappling 6. However, he lost a split decision to Aljamain Sterling at ADXC 2 in January 2024. These matches highlight his commitment to testing his jiu-jitsu against elite grapplers.
Fighting Style: The Grappling Wizard
Hooper’s fighting style revolves around his world-class Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His long limbs and flexibility allow him to execute submissions like rear-naked chokes, heel hooks, and D’Arce chokes with precision. In the octagon, he seeks to close the distance, clinch, and take fights to the ground, where he excels. His ability to chain submission attempts keeps opponents guessing.
However, Hooper has worked to round out his game. His striking, once a weakness, has improved significantly. He now uses kicks and jabs to set up takedowns, making him less predictable. Training with elite coaches at Combat Sport & Fitness in Enumclaw has refined his stand-up game. Moreover, sparring with top grapplers like Mikey Musumeci has reignited his passion for jiu-jitsu, enhancing his ground work.
Hooper’s durability also stands out. He absorbs punishment while maintaining composure, often turning the tide in later rounds. His fight against Peter Barrett exemplified this, as he weathered early adversity to secure a submission. Consequently, his blend of grappling, improving striking, and mental toughness makes him a formidable lightweight.
Personal Life: Beyond the Octagon
Outside the cage, Hooper leads a grounded life. In 2021, he announced his engagement to his longtime girlfriend, a milestone that endeared him to fans. His affable personality breaks the stereotypical “tough guy” mold, making him relatable. Hooper often shares glimpses of his life on social media, connecting with supporters through humor and authenticity.
His small-town roots remain a source of pride. Hooper trains in Enumclaw, surrounded by family and friends who keep him humble. He credits his parents for instilling resilience and discipline, qualities that shine in his fights. Additionally, his love for gaming and pop culture adds a youthful charm, resonating with younger audiences.
Hooper’s engagement with fans extends to his post-fight interviews. His candid, lighthearted comments—like his “gooning” remark after UFC 314—spark laughter and viral moments. This charisma, combined with his in-cage success, has boosted his marketability, evidenced by merchandise like the “Certified Gooner” shirt sold on eBay in 2025.
Challenges and Criticisms: Growing Pains
Despite his success, Hooper has faced scrutiny. Early in his UFC career, commentators like Joe Rogan questioned his readiness, citing his striking deficiencies. His losses to Alex Caceres and Steven Peterson fueled doubts about his ability to compete at the highest level. Critics argued he needed more seasoning in regional promotions.
Hooper’s youth also drew attention. At 20, he faced veterans with far more experience, leading to uneven performances. His fight against Steve Garcia in October 2022, where he suffered a second-round TKO, exposed vulnerabilities in his stand-up defense. However, Hooper used these setbacks as learning opportunities, addressing weaknesses through dedicated training.
Moreover, his grappling-heavy style has been called one-dimensional by some analysts. While his submissions are lethal, opponents with strong takedown defense can neutralize his game plan. Nevertheless, Hooper’s recent performances show progress in diversifying his approach, silencing many detractors.
The Road Ahead: Chasing a Title Shot
As of May 2025, Hooper stands at a 16-3-1 professional record, with eight submission wins and four knockouts. His five-fight winning streak positions him for bigger matchups in the lightweight division. Fans speculate about potential fights against ranked opponents like Beneil Dariush or Rafael Fiziev, which could propel him into the top 15.
Hooper’s team has hinted at a busy 2025, with plans to fight at least twice. His new four-fight UFC contract, signed in September 2024, ensures stability as he climbs the ranks. Additionally, his desire to face top grapplers suggests he’ll continue competing in grappling events, sharpening his skills.
The lightweight division, known for its depth, presents challenges. Fighters like Islam Makhachev, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje dominate the top tier. However, Hooper’s youth and improving skill set make him a long-term threat. If he continues his trajectory, a title shot by 2027 or 2028 is plausible.
Impact on MMA: Inspiring the Next Generation
Hooper’s journey inspires young fighters. His success as a teenager in the UFC shows that dedication can overcome age barriers. His emphasis on jiu-jitsu highlights the importance of grappling in modern MMA, encouraging newcomers to master ground work. Furthermore, his approachable demeanor makes him a role model for fans.
His performances have also influenced the lightweight division. Opponents now prepare specifically for his submission game, elevating the division’s grappling standards. Hooper’s ability to finish fights, with 12 of his 16 wins by stoppage, adds excitement to events, boosting UFC’s appeal.
Moreover, his marketability extends beyond the octagon. His viral moments and merchandise sales reflect a growing fanbase. As he rises, Hooper could become a face of the UFC, attracting sponsors and mainstream attention.
Conclusion: The Dream Continues
Chase Hooper’s journey from a small-town teenager to a UFC lightweight contender embodies perseverance and growth. His mastery of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, coupled with improving striking, makes him a thrilling fighter to watch. Victories over veterans like Clay Guida and Jim Miller in 2024 and 2025 have cemented his place among the division’s elite. Yet, his humility and humor keep him grounded, endearing him to fans worldwide.
Jake Burger As Hooper looks to 2025 and beyond, the MMA world watches eagerly. His potential to crack the top 10 and vie for a title is undeniable. With each fight, he proves that “The Dream” is not just a nickname but a vision he’s actively chasing. For now, Hooper remains a beacon of hope for young athletes, showing that hard work and heart can turn dreams into reality.
FAQs
What is Chase Hooper’s fighting style, and how has it evolved?
The Copa del Chase Hooper relies heavily on Brazilian jiu-jitsu, using submissions like rear-naked chokes and D’Arce chokes to finish fights. His long limbs and flexibility make him a grappling wizard, often taking opponents to the ground to dominate. Over time, he has improved his striking, incorporating kicks and jabs to set up takedowns. This evolution, seen in his 2024 and 2025 fights, has made him a more well-rounded fighter, capable of competing in the lightweight division’s diverse landscape.
Why did Chase Hooper move to the lightweight division?
Garmin Fenix 8 Hooper moved from featherweight (145 pounds) to lightweight (155 pounds) in 2023 to better suit his frame and strength. The featherweight cut was challenging, and he struggled against larger opponents, posting a 3-3 record. The lightweight division allowed him to maintain power while leveraging his grappling. Since the move, he has won five consecutive fights, including submissions and a unanimous decision, proving the transition was a game-changer for his career.
What are Chase Hooper’s most notable UFC victories?
The Legacy Hooper’s standout wins include his submission of Clay Guida via armbar at UFC 310 in December 2024, earning a Performance of the Night bonus. He also submitted Viacheslav Borshchev with a D’Arce choke in May 2024 and Jordan Leavitt with a rear-naked choke in November 2023. His unanimous decision over Jim Miller at UFC 314 in April 2025 showcased his grappling dominance. These victories highlight his ability to finish fights and compete against veterans.
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