Daniel Cormier Advocates for Anthony Hernandez’s ascent in the Middleweight Division
Daniel Cormier, a former UFC champion and well-respected analyst, is a strong advocate for Anthony "Fluffy" Hernandez’s rise in the middleweight division. Hernandez, who recently secured his seventh consecutive win with a hard-fought unanimous decision over Brendan Allen at UFC Seattle, is on the verge of breaking into the top 5 of the division. Cormier believes Hernandez has proven his mettle, noting his recent victories over Michel Pereira, Roman Kopylov, Edmen Shahbazyan, Marc-Andre Barriault, and Rodolfo Vieira. These wins have showcased Hernandez’s versatility, with a mix of knockouts, submissions, and decisions. Cormier argues that it’s time for the UFC to match Hernandez against a higher-profile opponent, such as a former champion like Israel Adesanya or Robert Whittaker, to truly elevate his status in the division.
A Star-Studded Next Opponent for Hernandez
While Hernandez has been consistently impressive, the key to his continued rise is a high-profile matchup. Cormier suggests that a fight against Israel Adesanya or Robert Whittaker would not only validate Hernandez’s skills but also provide the exposure needed to break into the elite ranks. Adesanya, currently ranked 4th in the division, and Whittaker, ranked 5th, are both former champions who could provide the necessary benchmark for Hernandez’s potential title contention. However, securing such a fight is easier said than done, as these established stars often have their own career trajectories to consider. Nevertheless, Cormier’s endorsement adds weight to Hernandez’s case for a marquee matchup.
Alternative Options and Fan Excitement
Hernandez’s podcast co-host, Chael Sonnen, offers an alternative perspective, suggesting a matchup with Paulo Costa. Costa, despite not having won his last fight, is known for his durability and five-round readiness, making him a compelling opponent. Sonnen believes that a fight between Hernandez and Costa would be exciting for fans, highlighting the "legit tough guy" qualities of both fighters. This matchup, while not as high-profile as Adesanya or Whittaker, could still provide a significant stepping stone for Hernandez and offer a thrilling bout for the audience.
The Controversy of Song Yadong vs. Henry Cejudo
The UFC Seattle card also saw a controversial fight between Song Yadong and Henry Cejudo. Song secured a win, but the bout was marred by an eye poke to Cejudo in the third round. The foul was ruled unintentional, and Cejudo was given five minutes to recover. However, upon resuming, Cejudo avoided confrontation, leading to a lack of action and dissatisfaction among fans. Big John McCarthy, a respected figure in MMA, criticized the decision, questioning the fairness of the ruling and the lack of consequences for fouls. This incident highlights the need for clearer and more consistent guidelines in handling fouls, as well as the potential for foul play to impact fight outcomes.
The Road Ahead for Hernandez
Hernandez’s continued success has earned him a strong following and support from influential figures like Cormier. However, the path to the top 5 and potentially a title shot is fraught with challenges. The UFC middleweight division is highly competitive, with several notable names vying for position. Despite these hurdles, Hernandez’s recent performances and the backing of veteran analysts suggest that he is ready for a big-name opponent. Whether it’s Adesanya, Whittaker, or another top contender, Hernandez has shown the resilience and skill to compete at the highest level.
Looking Forward
As Hernandez continues his ascent, the MMA community anticipates his next move with keen interest. The choice of his next opponent will be crucial in determining his future in the division. While the road ahead is uncertain, one thing is clear: Anthony "Fluffy" Hernandez has earned his shot at greatness, and the MMA world is eager to see what he can achieve against the division’s elite.
