As 2025 approaches, the excitement surrounding Anthony Hernandez (13-2 MMA, 7-2 UFC) is palpable, particularly with his rematch scheduled against Brendan Allen (24-6 MMA, 12-3 UFC) at UFC Fight Night 252 on February 22. This matchup, set to take place at the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, represents more than just a routine fight; it’s a significant chapter in Hernandez’s career, bringing him one step closer to his ultimate goal of securing the UFC middleweight championship.
Hernandez’s previous encounter with Allen ended with a unanimous decision win for him in January 2018, where he snatched the vacant LFA middleweight title. This dismantling of Allen six years ago has set the stage for a high-stakes rematch. Both fighters have evolved since their first bout, making the upcoming fight a compelling narrative for fans and analysts alike.
As Hernandez looks ahead, he reflects on the importance of staying healthy and focused. In a candid conversation with MMA Junkie Radio, he expressed his aspirations of fighting for the title by year-end. He declared that he’s eager to notch two more victories, including this rematch with Allen, to solidify his position among the elite in the UFC middleweight division. “I’m not getting any younger. My whole goal is to get the belt, hold it for a while, and then retire. That’s the dream,” he articulated, encapsulating the urgency that surrounds his ambitions.
This declaration reveals a fighter who is not only ready for the challenge ahead but is also deeply aware of the finite nature of an athlete’s career. The desire to hold the title and enjoy the accolades associated with it reinforces the dream that drives many fighters, particularly within the high-stakes atmosphere of the UFC.
Hernandez enters the octagon on a remarkable six-fight winning streak, including two recent stellar performances that earned him Performance of the Night honors against Roman Kopylov and a TKO victory over Michel Pereira. These accomplishments have certainly elevated his profile within the sport and, more importantly, have begun to resonate with fans.
“The love from the fans is definitely growing,” Hernandez remarked, as he acknowledges that public support fuels his fire in the octagon. This sentiment highlights a crucial aspect of the sport; the bond between fighters and spectators enhances the overall experience, pushing athletes to elevate their game further.
With fans rallying behind him and the prospect of claiming the middleweight title on the horizon, Hernandez stands at a pivotal moment in his career. As he prepares for this highly anticipated rematch, the overarching goal remains clear: to let his hard work resonate in the form of championship accolades and eventual retirement plans. 2025 looks promising for Hernandez, and the narrative unfolding in the octagon will undoubtedly keep fans on the edge of their seats.