18-Year Age Gap: UFC Prospect Submits Hall of Fame Veteran

Originally posted on MMA on SI | By Mathew Riddle | Last updated Dec 7, 2024 6:42 PM ET

Chase 'The Dream' Hooper is now on a four-fight winning streak in the UFC's lightweight division.

The 25-year-old grappling specialist made an impressive debut with four consecutive PPV appearances before his momentum was halted by Steve Garcia in 2022. In response, Hooper moved up to lightweight, focusing on filling out his frame and improving his striking. During this time, he faced UFC veteran and Hall of Famer Clay Guida in a grappling match, securing a submission victory via calf slicer.

Hooper Submits Guida... Again

In an unusual bit of matchmaking by the UFC, Hooper was paired against Guida under MMA rules at UFC 310 on December 7. At 42 years old, Guida became part of the largest age gap between fighters in the modern era of the UFC - and it showed. Hooper submitted Guida by armbar in the first round.

Chase Hooper submits Clay Guida in round 1 #UFC310 pic.twitter.com/4UixjX2BW3
— Haduucken (@Haduuuucken) December 7, 2024

With this victory, Hooper extended his winning streak to four and should be looking to take on ranked opposition in his next appearance. On the other hand, Guida rides a three-fight losing streak and could be looking at retirement very soon.

This article first appeared on MMA on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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