Anthony "Fluffy" Hernandez has been on an impressive run in the UFC’s middleweight division, with his latest victory over Brendan Allen at UFC Seattle further solidifying his status as a top contender. His relentless pressure, strong grappling, and improving striking make him a serious threat in the division. Now ranked #9, Hernandez is looking for a high-profile opponent to propel him into title contention. A fight against #7-ranked Jared Cannonier makes perfect sense for both fighters.
Hernandez (14-2, 1 NC) is known for his suffocating wrestling, high-paced striking, and submission skills. Meanwhile, Cannonier (18-8) is a powerful striker with knockout ability and solid takedown defense. With Hernandez riding a six-fight win streak and Cannonier coming off a TKO win over Gregory Rodrigues, this bout would be a pivotal clash between a surging contender and an experienced veteran.
Anthony Hernandez’s Last Five Fights:
1. ✅ Win – vs. Brendan Allen (Unanimous Decision) – UFC Fight Night, Feb 22, 2025
2. ✅ Win – vs. Michel Pereira (TKO, Elbows) – UFC Fight Night, Oct 19, 2024
3. ✅ Win – vs. Roman Kopylov (Submission, Rear-Naked Choke) – UFC 298, Feb 17, 2024
4. ✅ Win – vs. Edmen Shahbazyan (TKO, Elbows & Punches) – UFC Fight Night, May 20, 2023
5. ✅ Win – vs. Marc-André Barriault (Technical Submission, Arm-Triangle Choke) – UFC Fight Night, Sep 17, 2022
Jared Cannonier’s Last Five Fights:
1. ✅ Win – vs. Gregory Rodrigues (TKO, Punches) – UFC Fight Night, Feb 15, 2025
2. ❌ Loss – vs. Caio Borralho (Unanimous Decision) – UFC on ESPN, Aug 24, 2024
3. ❌ Loss – vs. Nassourdine Imavov (TKO, Punches) – UFC on ESPN, Jun 8, 2024
4. ✅ Win – vs. Marvin Vettori (Unanimous Decision) – UFC on ESPN, Jun 17, 2023
5. ✅ Win – vs. Sean Strickland (Split Decision) – UFC Fight Night, Dec 17, 2022
Hernandez’s non-stop pace and grappling would test Cannonier’s takedown defense and endurance, while Cannonier’s knockout power would be a constant threat. If Hernandez can impose his wrestling, he has a path to victory via submission or decision. However, if Cannonier keeps the fight standing, his power could be the difference-maker.
