Al Iaquinta (photo via UFC / YouTube)

By FCF Staff

After coming up short against Donald Cerrone in his last bout, Al Iaquinta is looking to remind people this weekend that he’s more than just a rugged fighter.

Iaquinta is set to take on Dan Hooker at UFC 243 on Saturday, in a lightweight contest that will serve as the co-main event. While talking to the media recently about Hooker, and what he expects, Iaquinta said this (quote via MMA Junkie):

“He’s definitely a tough fighter,” said Iaquinta. “And I think every fight, he’s getting better and better, adding new things to his game, so I’m definitely aware of his dangerous points, but I think that maybe people that think we’re both just tough guys, I’m going to show in this fight that I’m not just a tough guy. I’m just a way better fighter in all aspects.”

“…My toughness is always going to be there. But I think a few fights that I had to use the toughness, the toughness really came out, but I think that in this one, the way that the style matchup is going to work out, it’s not going to be that case. You’re really going to see how good I am.”

Prior to his decision loss to Cerrone in May, Iaquinta (14-5-1) recorded a decision win over Kevin Lee in December.

Hooker (18-8), meanwhile, is coming off a quick, knockout win over James Vick in July, after he was stopped by Edson Barboza in December.

UFC 243 is taking place in Melbourne, Australia.