Veteran Clay Guida took on one of the UFC’s younger stars in Chase Hooper in a lightweight match-up early on the UFC 310 prelims on Saturday.
Age apart— Guida is 42, Hooper 25 — the pair could not have been in more different spots. “The Carpenter” had lost two straight, while Hooper was on a roll, having picked up victories in his last three, including two straight submissions.
In a fight where most expected it to be contested mainly on the ground Hooper decided to show just how much he’s improved on the feet. Cleaner footwork, good combinations, he put it on Guida early and often.
Grappling fans weren’t disappointed however as the two did grapple plenty with the taller Hooper getting the better of Guida in each exchange.
The pace was high, but not enough to slow Hooper down as he used the striking game to make Guida worry about the hands, and when the fight hit the ground the young kid took over.
Quick work for Chase Hooper 💪#UFC310 | LIVE NOW | ESPN+ 🍿 https://t.co/XX1YuUOYuv pic.twitter.com/jZGDWqQl0J
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) December 7, 2024
Hooper sunk the arm bar in forcing Guida into a panic as he looked for a way out of the submission, but it was not to be. Hooper scores a second consecutive victory ending his 2024 with a 2-1 record.
Official Result: Chase Hooper def. Clay Guida via R1 SUB (Armbar), 3:41
