Saladin Parnasse vs Dan Hooker Prediction 5 September 2026

28-year-old French representative Saladin Parnasse has a professional record of 23 wins and 2 losses. He is a versatile fighter who relies on quality striking, athleticism and a high pace, complemented by solid grappling skills. In his last three fights, Parnasse picked up convincing victories, knocking out Kenny Cross and also defeating Marcin Held and Marian Ziółkowski before the final bell.

36-year-old Dan Hooker from New Zealand enters the fight with a record of 24 wins and 14 losses. His style is based on aggressive kickboxing, using his reach advantage at distance, attacks with the knees and high endurance in prolonged exchanges. However, the New Zealander's results have declined in recent outings: after a split-decision victory over Mateusz Gamrot, he suffered two consecutive stoppage losses — by submission to Arman Tsarukyan and by technical knockout to Benoit Saint-Denis.

Considering the fighters' physical attributes, styles and current form, Parnasse looks like the favorite. The Frenchman is younger and faster, while also being in optimal physical shape. Hooker, meanwhile, often absorbs a significant amount of damage and no longer possesses his former reaction speed. Saladin should be able to maintain a comfortable distance, dictate the pace and use his footwork and superior timing to shut down his opponent's attacks, which should lead him to a decision victory.

Saladin Parnasse by decision at 1.61