Anthony Hernandez previews his match against Khamzat Chimaev and declares: 'I have an arsenal'

Hernandez promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

On a collision course with Sean Strickland in the main event next Saturday (21), Anthony Hernandez can't help but imagine what a confrontation with Khamzat Chimaev for the middleweight title (up to 83,9 kg) would be like. With eight consecutive wins and occupying the fourth position in the division ranking, the American knows that he may be just one victory away from securing the long-awaited title opportunity against the undefeated Chechen. He spoke about the hypothetical duel in an interview with NY Post Sports last Tuesday (17).

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When briefly discussing the technical aspects of a fight with Chimaev, Hernandez highlighted his versatility compared to the champion. Known for his ground game and excellent physical conditioning, the American began impressing fans by submitting Rodolfo Vieira in 2021. Against Borz, he believes he would have an advantage in striking.

“Our grappling defense is very good, so I think I can force Khamzat to stay standing. I don’t care where the fight goes, he has one thing and I have an arsenal. I want my time to prove I’m the champion, clean up the division, and you’ll probably never see me again because I’ll be out.”

“He's got one thing and I've got af**ng arsenal” – Anthony Hernandez doesn't care where the fight goes with Khamzat Chimaev

"Our grappling defense is really good, so I think I can force Khamzat to stay on his feet. I don't give af**k where the fight goes, he's got one thing… pic.twitter.com/IZG4M5Bkok

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 18, 2026

Anthony Hernandez would face an undefeated Chimaev.

Chimaev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

Although he initially stood out as a welterweight (up to 77,1 kg), it was in the higher weight class that the Chechen fighter achieved his dream of becoming UFC champion. In his current division, "The Wolf" has victories against names of the caliber of Robert Whittaker , Kamaru Usman , and Dricus Du Plessis . In total, he is undefeated with 15 wins and no losses.

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