Anthony Hernandez has shared the reasons behind accepting the Anthony Hernandez Reinier de Ridder fight scheduled for <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/mma/ufc/”>UFC Vancouver. Following a strong performance against Roman Dolidze, many expected Hernandez to be close to a title shot, but he must first surpass Reinier de Ridder to advance toward the UFC middleweight championship opportunity.

Reinier de Ridder has also gained significant momentum since entering the UFC, establishing himself as a formidable contender. Both fighters are eager to prove their worth and secure a potential matchup with Khamzat Chimaev for the middleweight belt. Their upcoming fight has already drawn attention as a key step toward that goal.

Hernandez Shares His Mindset About the Upcoming Match

In a recent interview, Hernandez described how the fight offer came unexpectedly yet compellingly.

“I was getting a massage and I got the offer and they said, ‘I think this is an offer you don’t want to pass.’ And I said, ‘OK, run it. Sign the contract.’ Now we’re here,”

Hernandez told MMA Junkie. He conveyed a determined attitude, willing to face any challenger on the path to the top, adding,

“If this is what I’ve got to do, let’s keep going. Like I said, if I’ve got to knock every mother f*cker down until I get to the top, then so be it.”

Hernandez emphasized that he does not control matchmaking decisions but respects the process.

“At the end of the day I’m not matchmaker,”

he said.

“I’m not Dana White. I don’t make the calls. He says, ‘Be here.’ And I say, ‘I’m in.’ If I’m f*cking healthy, I’m there. I’ll f*cking never say no to anybody in this f*cking division.”

Despite frustrations with skepticism from others, Hernandez remains committed and undeterred.

“At that point it’s like, what the f*ck am I going to do? At that point if people don’t believe me, then f*ck ’em. We’re going to keep sending that sh*t until we get everyone on our side,”

he stated firmly.

Analyzing Previous Fights and Preparing for De Ridder

Reflecting on his prior contest against Roman Dolidze, Hernandez expressed his thoughts on Dolidze’s style.

“I thought DDP would actually have answers and stuff, but turns out he just got away with being a f*cking big strong guy for a long time,”

Hernandez said. He pointed out that relying purely on strength is insufficient against more skilled opponents, especially those with a wrestling background, as it creates vulnerabilities.

He believes he is competing at a higher level now and remains focused on preparing specifically for his next opponent.

“He found that out that night. There’s levels to this shit, and I think I’m on that level. Eventually when the fight comes I’ll be ready for it, but it’s one fight at a time for me. Next fight is de Ridder so I’ll just strategize against him and just f*cking keep climbing the rankings,”

Hernandez said.

What This Fight Means for UFC Middleweight Contention

The Anthony Hernandez Reinier de Ridder fight at UFC Vancouver is more than just another bout; it represents a critical hurdle in the quest for a middleweight title opportunity. Both fighters are set to make a strong statement with this matchup as they aim to become the next challenger to Khamzat Chimaev’s reign. The outcome will significantly shape the division’s hierarchy and potentially set the stage for a high-profile title fight.

Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how Hernandez and de Ridder perform under pressure, with the intensity of their recent performances suggesting a fiercely competitive showdown. As Hernandez continues climbing the rankings, his unwavering determination highlights the high stakes involved in securing a championship shot.