New Jersey’s Jim Miller returns home to face Dan Hooker at UFC Atlantic City

It wouldn’t be a UFC card in Atlantic City without a true New Jersey native. Jim Miller will make his return to the octagon as he faces off against Dan Hooker.

This will be Miller’s ( 28-11 (1) ) 29th walk towards the octagon, tying him with Michael Bisping for the most appearances in UFC history. Atlantic City is used to seeing Jim Miller. In 2014, he faced Donald Cerrone at UFC Fight Night 45, in a losing effort. A few years later, Miller will return to Boardwalk Hall to avenge the loss.

The amount of appearances he has made over the years is a testament to his commitment to the sport, even through the face of adversity. Miller is on a three-fight losing streak. It was UFC 205 in Madison Square Garden against Thiago Alves where he got his last win. Miller’s first loss in the streak came against Dustin Poirier at UFC 208 in Brooklyn. That was considered the Fight of the Night, and after witnessing the fight live, it deserved to be. He then lost to Anthony Pettis at UFC 213 and Franciso Trinaldo at UFC Fight Night 119. All of the losses came via decision.

Known as a scrappy fighter, Miller has received praise from each bout he’s been involved in. The same could be said for New Zealand’s Dan Hooker. The 28-year old Hooker (15-7) has won two fights in a row, the last one being against Marc Diakiese at UFC 219 via guillotine choke. All five of his wins in the UFC have come via a stoppage, whether it’s via TKO or submission.

Hooker will have to work on his submission game against a guy like Miller. The last time Double G Sports spoke to Jim Miler was at UFC 208. He discussed how dangerous he was off of his back, whether it’s his striking or submission ability. Whether that will play a factor in the fight is entirely up to Miller. It will surely not be a walk in the park against Hooker, who may be on his way to a title shot, should he win.

UFC Fight Night 128 takes place on April 21st at Boardwalk Hall. The supposed main event of the show will feature Kevin Lee against Edson Barboza.