Overview
- Hooker posted a video and wrote “RIP Ricky” on social media, referencing a friend of Pimblett who died by suicide.
- Pimblett said his earlier line about Hooker’s grappling was an analogy and insisted he did not insult Hooker’s mother.
- The Liverpudlian warned Hooker to avoid Liverpool after the exchange, citing fears of confrontations from local fans.
- Pimblett is scheduled to face Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on January 24, while Hooker meets Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 325 on January 31 in Sydney.
- Pimblett, who has previously advocated for mental-health awareness in discussing his friend, called Hooker’s comment “below the belt” and disparaged Hooker’s recent form and ranking.