Who is involved
Chase Hooper, a 26-year-old mixed martial artist, is preparing to enter the octagon against Lance Gibson Jr. on March 28, 2026, in Seattle, WA. Hooper, known for his grappling skills, has a professional MMA record of 12 wins and 4 losses, with 4 of those victories coming by way of submission in the UFC. Prior to his recent setback, he enjoyed a five-fight winning streak from May 2023 to April 2025, showcasing his potential as a rising star in the Lightweight division.
In contrast, Lance Gibson Jr. has faced challenges in his career, including a loss in his UFC debut against King Green in December 2025. His last victory dates back to November 2024, leaving him with a professional record of 12 wins and 9 fights overall. At 5’9″ tall with a reach of 72 inches, Gibson is at a height and reach disadvantage compared to Hooper, who stands at 6’1″ with a reach of 74 inches. This physical disparity may play a significant role in their matchup.
The stakes are high for both fighters as they step into the cage. Hooper is currently a -325 favorite on DraftKings Sportsbook, while Gibson is listed as a +260 underdog. This betting line reflects the expectations surrounding Hooper’s abilities and recent performances. However, the fight’s outcome remains uncertain, as both fighters have their strengths and weaknesses that could influence the result.
Hooper’s recent TKO loss to Alexander Hernandez in August 2025 has raised questions about his resilience and ability to bounce back. Experts suggest that despite this setback, Hooper still possesses the skills necessary to climb the Lightweight rankings. “Hooper is still only 26 and has plenty of time to work his way up the Lightweight rankings,” one analyst noted, emphasizing his youth and potential for growth.
On the other hand, Gibson’s well-rounded striking and wrestling skills may pose a challenge for Hooper. Analysts have pointed out that Gibson is the stronger athlete and could leverage his wrestling to control the fight. “Gibson is the more well-rounded striker and wrestler, and he will be the stronger guy/better athlete,” said a fight expert, highlighting the potential for Gibson to exploit Hooper’s weaknesses.
As the fight approaches, both fighters are likely to adjust their strategies. Hooper is known for his dangerous submission grappling, which could be a decisive factor if he can bring the fight to the ground. “Hooper is a dangerous submission grappler, and he knows he isn’t a good striker,” an analyst remarked, indicating that Hooper may aim to avoid striking exchanges and instead focus on his grappling prowess.
The matchup is set to begin at 5:00 p.m. ET, and fans are eager to see how these two fighters will perform under pressure. With Hooper’s recent loss and Gibson’s struggle to find momentum, the fight could serve as a pivotal moment in both their careers. As they prepare to face off, the outcome remains uncertain, and details remain unconfirmed regarding their final strategies.