Cain Velasquez-Inspired Chaos: Pros React to Anthony Hernandez’s Dominant Victory Over Roman Dolidze

Anthony Hernandez Dominates Roman Dolidze At UFC Vegas 109

Anthony Hernandez delivered a statement victory over Roman Dolidze in the main event of UFC Vegas 109, sending shockwaves through the middleweight division. “Fluffy” showcased a masterful performance, securing his eighth consecutive win with a dominant rear-naked choke submission.

Hernandez’s Performance Earns Praise

The fight unfolded with Hernandez taking immediate control, dictating the pace and frustrating Dolidze. Analyst Din Thomas lauded Hernandez’s showing as the best performance in the middleweight division in the last three years. Dolidze repeatedly found himself in trouble, incurring a point deduction for multiple fence grabs before ultimately tapping out.

Strategic Timing Amidst Title Contenders

Hernandez’s timing couldn’t be more impeccable. With Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev poised to battle for the middleweight title at UFC 319 next Saturday in Chicago, Hernandez has firmly inserted himself into the title conversation. This win significantly elevates his position within the division.

UFC Community Reacts

The mixed martial arts community quickly took to social media to express their astonishment at Hernandez’s performance. Fellow UFC fighters and analysts alike praised his skill and strategic execution. The victory has sparked widespread discussion about Hernandez’s potential future in the title picture.

What this Means For The Middleweight Division

Hernandez’s ascent adds another layer of complexity to an already competitive middleweight division. His grappling prowess and tactical approach present a unique challenge to current and future opponents. This win signals a potential shift in the landscape of the 185-pound weight class.

Disclaimer: This article reports on a sporting event.It does not provide medical, financial, or legal advice.

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What specific aspects of Hernandez’s grappling were most reminiscent of Cain velasquez’s style, according to pro reactions?

Hernandez’s Performance: A New Breed of Pressure Fighter

Anthony Hernandez’s unanimous decision victory over roman Dolidze at UFC Fight Night on August 9th, 2025, wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. Many are drawing parallels to the relentless, pressure-heavy style that defined Cain Velasquez’s championship reign. Hernandez didn’t just win rounds, he systematically broke Dolidze down with a suffocating pace and relentless grappling. This victory has sent ripples through the middleweight division, prompting reactions from fighters and analysts alike.

The key to Hernandez’s success? A constant forward march, mixing in takedowns with powerful striking, and an unwavering commitment to maintaining top control. This echoes velasquez’s blueprint for dominance – a cardio-fueled assault that few opponents could withstand.

Pro Reactions: Echoes of Velasquez’s Legacy

Several prominent fighters took to social media to share their thoughts on Hernandez’s performance.

Israel Adesanya (via X): “Hernandez brought the pressure. Reminded me of watching Cain in his prime. Dolidze couldn’t find an answer for that relentless pace. Respect.”

Robert Whittaker (via Instagram): “That was a masterclass in pressure fighting. Hernandez is a problem for anyone at 185. The grappling was suffocating.”

Sean Strickland (via podcast): “Look, Dolidze is tough, but Hernandez just overwhelmed him. It wasn’t fancy, it was effective. that’s the Velasquez style – wear ’em down,break their will.”

thes reactions highlight a common theme: Hernandez’s approach is a throwback to a more physically imposing and relentlessly aggressive style of fighting. The emphasis on cardio, wrestling, and ground-and-pound is a stark contrast to the more technical, point-fighting strategies often seen in modern MMA.

Breaking Down Hernandez’s Game Plan: Key Elements

Hernandez’s victory wasn’t simply about brute force. It was a carefully executed game plan that exploited Dolidze’s weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:

1. Relentless Pressure: Hernandez consistently closed the distance, forcing Dolidze to fight defensively. This disrupted Dolidze’s rhythm and prevented him from establishing his striking game.
2. Effective Takedowns: Hernandez secured multiple takedowns, showcasing his wrestling prowess. These takedowns weren’t just for control; they were used to inflict damage and tire Dolidze out.
3. Dominant top Control: Once on top, Hernandez maintained a dominant position, relentlessly working for ground-and-pound and submission attempts. This constant pressure wore Dolidze down both physically and mentally.
4. Cardio & Pace: Hernandez’s ability to maintain this relentless pace throughout all three rounds was crucial. It’s a testament to his conditioning and a clear nod to the Velasquez approach.

The Velasquez Influence: A Resurgence of Pressure Fighting?

Cain Velasquez’s career was tragically cut short, but his impact on the sport remains undeniable. His relentless style inspired a generation of fighters, and Hernandez’s victory may signal a resurgence of pressure fighting in MMA.

The Benefits of Pressure fighting:

Disrupts Opponent’s Game Plan: Constant pressure forces opponents to react, limiting their ability to execute their own strategies.

Exposes Weaknesses: A relentless attack can expose weaknesses in an opponent’s defense, both physically and mentally.

Controls the Pace: Pressure fighters dictate the pace of the fight, forcing opponents to fight at their speed.

Challenges of Pressure Fighting:

Requires Exceptional Cardio: Maintaining a relentless pace requires exceptional cardiovascular conditioning.

Vulnerable to Counter Strikes: Aggressive fighters can be vulnerable to counter strikes if they overcommit.

Requires Strong Wrestling & Grappling: Effective takedowns and dominant top control are essential for success.

Hernandez’s Path Forward: Contender Status

With this notable victory, Anthony Hernandez has firmly established himself as a legitimate contender in the middleweight division. A potential matchup against a top-5 opponent is almost guaranteed. Analysts are already speculating about potential fights:

Dricus Du Plessis: A clash of styles between hernandez’s pressure fighting and Du Plessis’s striking would be a compelling matchup.