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Sports Illustrated

Teen prospect to hometown fighter: Chase Hooper’s full-circle moment

Sports Illustrated · Older
Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Older

Chase Hooper has grown up in front of fight fans inside the Octagon, evolving from a teenage prospect into a dangerous contender. Ahead of his hometown fight in Seattle, Hooper spoke with Sports Illustrated’s Doug Vazquez about his journey, the moment, and what it means to finally compete in front of his home crowd.

Breakdown
  • Hooper returns to fight in Seattle after nearly a decade on the road. 19s
  • He balances fatherhood with training, bringing his daughter to the gym. 2m 2s
  • Hooper comments on UFC matchmaking and supports Justin Gaethje's title shot. 2m 41s
  • He supports Michael Chiesa's decision to retire for health reasons. 6m 2s
  • Hooper focuses on a fight-by-fight approach, prioritizing health and career longevity. 7m 24s
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