"I don't have to have any distractions now, I just get to focus on my fighting," Hooker said.
"It's just more relaxing. It's far less stress. I'm so grateful that I can just focus on this. All I've wanted to do all along is not have to worry about work. I've got money for food, money for rent; I can survive by just training."
After his victory over Entwistle, which included an entertaining post-fight press conference with a couple of catchy one-liners, Hooker (11-4) started the "hangmanforjapan" campaign on social media and it has paid off for him.
Blanco (10-6-1, 1NC) is a stand-up specialist, which presents the potential for an entertaining bout with Hooker, given his kickboxing background.
"I've looked him up," Hooker said.
"I've watched his fights. It's going to be a good fight; he's a striker.
"The fans love two guys standing and striking, I can't wait for this one."
A majority of Hooker's previous MMA fights were at lightweight but he said the drop to featherweight was no problem and had helped him stick to a healthier diet.
At 1.83m, Hooker is also one of the tallest fighters in the featherweight division and he looms as a tricky opponent given his height.
In Japan, Hooker will also get a close look at the main event, which in Hunt features a fighter he has long looked up to.
"That's the number one reason why I wanted on the card was to watch Mark Hunt and Roy Nelson bang it out, I can't wait for that."