Hooper Looks to Bounce Back Against Gibson in Seattle

UFC Lightweight Prospects Chase Hooper and Lance Gibson Jr. Meet in Prelim Headliner

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:35pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the movements and action of a UFC lightweight fight, with sharp planes of navy, crimson, and gold colors overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract visual representation of the matchup.A cubist interpretation of the upcoming lightweight clash between rising prospects Chase Hooper and Lance Gibson Jr.Seattle Today

In the second-to-last fight on tonight's UFC Fight Night Prelims in Seattle, 26-year-old lightweight prospect Chase Hooper looks to get back in the win column against Lance Gibson Jr. Hooper, coming off a loss to Alexander Hernandez, holds a significant size advantage and is a heavy betting favorite to defeat the debuting Gibson.

Why it matters

This matchup between two up-and-coming lightweights could have implications for the future of the UFC's 155-pound division. A win for Hooper would get his career back on track, while a victory for the underdog Gibson would be a major statement in his UFC debut.

The details

Hooper, who stands 6'1" with a 74" reach, is the taller and longer fighter compared to the 5'9" Gibson and his 72" reach. Hooper has won 12 of his 16 pro fights by KO/TKO or submission, including four of his six UFC victories. Gibson is looking for his first win in the Octagon after losing his debut to King Green in December 2025.

  • The UFC Fight Night Prelims, including this bout, begin at 5:00 p.m. ET on Paramount+.
  • Hooper last fought in August 2025, suffering a loss to Alexander Hernandez.
  • Gibson last competed in November 2024, picking up a victory outside the UFC.

The players

Chase Hooper

A 26-year-old lightweight prospect with a 12-4 professional record, including a 6-3 mark in the UFC. Hooper is known for his versatile skill set and finishing ability, having won 12 of his fights by KO/TKO or submission.

Lance Gibson Jr.

The 25-year-old lightweight makes his UFC debut after a 9-2 run on the regional circuit. Gibson will look to pick up his first victory in the Octagon after losing his debut to King Green in December 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Chase Hooper is a tough out for anyone in the lightweight division. He's got the size, skill, and finishing power to give Gibson a lot of problems in his UFC debut.”

— Ryan Wohl, MMA Analyst

What’s next

If Hooper emerges victorious, he could potentially earn a higher-profile fight in his next outing as he looks to work his way back into title contention at 155 pounds. A loss would be a setback for the young prospect.

The takeaway

This matchup between two up-and-coming lightweights represents an opportunity for both fighters to make a statement. Hooper, the more experienced and accomplished fighter, will be heavily favored, but Gibson will look to pull off the upset in his UFC debut and announce his arrival on the big stage.