Anthony Hernandez looks ahead to possible Khamzat Chimaev clash

By Harry Kettle - February 19, 2026 at 4:39 AM PST // 0 Comments

UFC middleweight contender Anthony Hernandez has looked ahead to the possibility of him challenging Khamzat Chimaev.

As we know, Anthony Hernandez is easily one of the most exciting contenders in the middleweight division. This weekend, he will attempt to pick up the biggest win of his career thus far when he goes up against the always controversial former champion Sean Strickland.

RELATED: Anthony Hernandez responds to Sean Strickland’s anti-Mexican taunts ahead of UFC Houston: ‘Going to torture him’

If he’s able to win, and do so decisively, there’s a big argument to be made that Anthony Hernandez should be the number one contender. Whether or not that actually happens, though, is a different matter, especially given both the inactivity of Khamzat Chimaev and the presence of Nassourdine Imavov.

In a recent interview, Hernandez had the following to say about potentially taking on Chimaev in the future.

Hernandez looks to the future

“My grappling defense is really good, so that’s one thing,” Hernandez told New York Post Sports. “I think I can force him to stay on his feet. I don’t give a f*ck where it goes: grappling, striking, standing up. He’s got one thing and I’ve got a f*cking arsenal, so I don’t really give a f*ck.

“I want my time to prove that I’m the champion. If he’s the challenger, whoever the f*ck has the belt, I don’t give a f*ck. I’m going to take that belt, clear out this division, and you’ll probably never see me again because I’m out.”

Quotes via MMA Junkie

Do you believe that ‘Fluffy’ will go on to win a world title in the UFC? If so, how do you see him matching up against Khamzat Chimaev if they fought? Let us know your thoughts on this in the comments below, BJPENN Nation!

This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM


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