Paul Felder, Dan Hooker go nose-to-nose ahead of UFC Auckland

Like your ceremonial faceoffs to have a little bit of flavor? Paul Felder and Dan Hooker have you covered.

Felder (17-4 MMA, 9-4 UFC) and Hooker (19-8 MMA, 9-4 UFC) faced off for one last time ahead of their UFC on ESPN+ 26 main event at today’s ceremonial weigh-ins at Spark Arena in Auckland, New Zealand. The pair went nose-to-nose on the stage, a gesture that’s made in a traditional Maori greeting. However, there was certainly a touch of tension in the moment, as well.

Afterward, Hooker spoke first in front of a supportive crowd.

“I’m going to close him like a chair,” Hooker said.

Then, it was Felder’s time on the microphone, and he went straight at the booing fans.

“You guys are supporting your boy,” Felder said. “I respect you, but I’m coming in here to shut you up tomorrow night, I promise you that, and taking this win back to the United States of America. That I promise you.”

UFC on ESPN+ 26 takes place Saturday (Sunday locally) at Spark Arena. The event streams on ESPN+.