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7h ago

Anthony Hernandez Dissects Du Plessis’ UFC 319 Loss as UFC Maps Routes to Chimaev’s First Title Defense

Hernandez says Du Plessis’ explosive approach fed into Chimaev’s dominant wrestling game.

Anthony Hernandez - Image credit @ilovebamf Instagram

Overview

  • Khamzat Chimaev took the UFC middleweight title from Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 by unanimous decision, logging 12 takedowns and roughly 21:40 of control time on three 50–44 scorecards.
  • From cageside, Anthony Hernandez argued Du Plessis relied on big, explosive striking that played into elite wrestling counters, calling the second round the moment the former champion unraveled.
  • Hernandez said the bout felt dull to fans who prefer striking but credited Chimaev for a smart, belt-securing game plan that stifled Du Plessis.
  • Riding an eight-fight win streak after submitting Roman Dolidze on August 9, Hernandez headlines on October 18 against Reinier de Ridder in Vancouver.
  • UFC CEO Dana White said Hernandez–de Ridder and Saturday’s Paris headliner Nassourdine Imavov vs. Caio Borralho will help determine the next middleweight title challenger, with Chimaev’s first defense yet to be announced.