This past Saturday, the UFC Fight Night 252 co-main event at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena showcased a thrilling middleweight clash between Anthony Hernandez and Brendan Allen. Both fighters entered the Octagon with significant stakes, as Hernandez aimed for a shot at the middleweight title while Allen sought redemption after facing a recent setback. The end result saw Hernandez earning a unanimous decision victory, with all judges scoring it 29-28 in favor of the Los Angeles native. This fight marked a notable chapter in Hernandez’s career, further solidifying his position in the competitive middleweight division.
The significance of this matchup extended beyond just another bout on the calendar. This rematch was a repeat of their earlier encounter in 2018 during the LFA title fight, where Hernandez had taken the victory by unanimous decision as well. The stakes were higher this time, as both fighters were more experienced and looking to capitalize on their evolving skill sets. Throughout the fight, both Hernandez and Allen seemed to anticipate each other’s moves, creating a back-and-forth dynamic that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Hernandez demonstrated resilience and strategic thinking, particularly in overcoming Allen’s powerful strikes, including a particularly debilitating left hand delivered in Round 3.
At the age of 31, Anthony Hernandez is proving to be a rising star within the UFC middleweight division. With this win, he extended his winning streak to an impressive seven fights, marking a turning point in his career where he is transitioning from an emerging contender to a legitimate title contender. Notably, Saturday’s victory was a different terrain for Hernandez, as it was the first fight in his winning streak not ending in a finish. This aspect highlights his ability to adapt and maintain competitive spirit through the entirety of a match, which will be essential as he faces increasingly formidable opponents in the future.
After the match, Hernandez expressed a clear ambition: to secure a shot at the title. He called out for an opponent who could prove his readiness, indicating that he is keen to rise to the occasion and earn his place at the top of the division. Simultaneously, Brendan Allen faces challenges of his own, having suffered defeats in his recent outings. His back-to-back losses may prompt him to reassess his strategy and approach in future fights.
Overall, UFC Fight Night 252 not only highlighted the relentless drive of Anthony Hernandez but also set the stage for an evolving middleweight division, where opportunities for title shots are increasingly competitive and coveted. As fans await Hernandez’s next move, the landscape of the UFC continues to thrive on the excitement of these high-stakes matchups.