Dan Hooker (photo via YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Not everyone believes that Dan Hooker should have been handed the win at UFC Auckland. But, the lightweight contenders says he’s “comfortable” he in fact, beat Paul Felder.

Hooker battled Felder in the main event of the February 23rd card, and was awarded the split decision victory. Some people, however, scored the thrilling fight for Felder.

While talking to ESPN’s Ariel Helwani recently, however, Hooker had this to say about the judges’ decision (quotes via MMA Fighting):

“I’m comfortable that I got the win,” Hooker said. “I won the first, second, and third, and the fifth round so I’m confident I won a majority of that fight. I thought it was pretty clear.

“Everyone is entitled to their own opinions,” Hooker added. “This is the first time I’ve ever won a split decision. This is the first time I’ve ever won a decision that’s been questioned so this is all new to me. He’s a tough guy. It took time. I had to play it smart. You fry fish, you don’t brisket. Paul Felder’s brisket; you’ve got to slow cook him.”

With the win, Hooker moved his overall record to 20-8 and he’s won three in a row. During the aforementioned interview, Hooker said he’s hoping to fight Justin Gaethje next. If that doesn’t happen, he’s targeting a fight with Dustin Poirier.