Anthony Hernandez Wins Over Roman Dolidze – Calls for Title Shot
Anthony Hernandez Dominates Roman Dolidze, Calls for Title shot after UFC Vegas 109 Submission
Table of Contents
Anthony Hernandez delivered a statement performance in the main event of UFC Vegas 109, submitting Roman Dolidze in the fourth round and emphatically calling for a shot at the middleweight title. The victory wasn’t just about the finish; it was about the complete and utter dominance Hernandez displayed after a competitive first round. Let’s break down how “Fluffernutter” dismantled a tough opponent and what this win means for his future in the 185-pound division.
Hernandez Overpowers Dolidze After Early Exchanges
The fight began with a feeling-out process,both fighters establishing their range and testing the waters. Dolidze,known for his grappling and physicality,initially had some success with takedowns,but Hernandez proved surprisingly adept at defending and scrambling back to his feet. Though, as the first round progressed, Dolidze began to impose his will, controlling the clinch and landing some powerful strikes.
but the tide dramatically turned in the second round. Hernandez began to find his rhythm, utilizing his striking to keep Dolidze at bay and landing with increasing accuracy. He started to anticipate Dolidze’s takedown attempts, turning them into advantageous positions for himself. From there, it became a one-sided affair.
Relentless Pressure Leads to Fourth-round Finish
As time passed, Dolidze was almost just conceding the takedowns with Hernandez immediately pressuring from the back position. Hernandez was relentless, dishing out punishment and making Dolidze work that much harder to survive. Back on the feet momentarily, Hernandez blasted Dolidze with a huge right hand and the Georgian middleweight was clearly fading. Hernandez was just battering Dolidze as bad went to worse as each minute expired.
Finally midway through the fourth round, Dolidze actually got a point deducted for repeatedly grabbing the cage, but Hernandez just continued his assault until finally snatching a rear-naked choke that mercifully ended the fight. It was one-way traffic after the first round with Hernandez entirely running over Dolidze before getting the submission finish.The official time of the stoppage was 3:36 of the fourth round.
What’s Next for “Fluffernutter”? Title Aspirations are High
With this latest win, Hernandez obviously takes a step forward in the division, although it remains to be seen if he actually gets into title contention. The middleweight landscape is currently fascinating. With Reinier de ridder recently defeating Robert Whittaker, and Nassourdine Imavov vs. Caio Borralho booked in September, it’s more likely Hernandez has to continue his climb up the ranks, but he’s proven to be a serious threat to anybody at 185 pounds.
hernandez certainly isn’t shy about his ambitions. “I want to prove that I can take the title,” Hernandez said. “I want a belt,I want something. I want to prove I’m the best in the world.”
A fight against a top-5 opponent would be the logical next step. Whether that’s Imavov, Borralho, or even a rematch with someone like dricus Du Plessis remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Anthony Hernandez has arrived, and he’s coming for gold. This performance has undoubtedly put the entire division on notice. He’s a dynamic, well-rounded fighter with the heart and skill to compete with the very best, and fans should be excited to see what he does next.