The UFC Atlantic City main card started the right way with a huge knee knockout from Dan Hooker against the well-respected veteran Jim Miller.
Dan Hooker alternated wins and losses in his first six UFC appearances, then decided to move up to lightweight. The lanky New Zealand native found a home at 155-pounds, knocking out Ross Pearson and defeating Marc Diakiese. He’ll look to make it three in a row at UFC Atlantic City.
Jim Miller is a legend in the sport and will tie Michael Bisping for most UFC appearances at 29 when he steps into the Octagon tonight. Despite battling Lyme disease, Miller was able to go on a three-fight win streak in 2016. Since then, he’s lost his last three bouts against tough opponents in Dustin Poirier, Anthony Pettis, and Francisco Trinaldo. Miller has 14 career victories in his home state of New Jersey, where tonight’s card is taking place.
Jim Miller began pumping jabs to start the fight, then Hooker began distance striking with jabs and a head kick. There seemed to be an eyepoke but Miller refused to ask for a pause in action. Miller caught Hooker with a big hook, then a body kick landed for Hooker.
Jim Miller landed a pair of hooks then fought hard for a takedown and got it. Miller stayed on top for around 30 seconds before Hooker stood up. Miller continued to look great from the inside, landing hooks on the chin of the New Zealand native. Jim Miller ducked after a hook and Hooker perfectly timed a knee that knocked out Miller, essentially identical to his knockout over Ross Pearson.
Dan Hooker was very respectful afterward, not celebrating and standing still at a neutral corner until Miller recovered from the huge knockout. In the post-fight interview, Hooker calmly asked to fight the man interviewing him next, which was Paul Felder. Felder accepted and we may get that one next.
Dan Hooker def. Jim Miller by KO (Knee) in Round 1 (3:00)
