Anthony Hernandez: The Underdog with a Burning Desire for Revenge

Anthony Hernandez, the laid-back California native, is known for his mellow demeanor and family-oriented lifestyle. However, heading into UFC Fight Night in Sacramento, Hernandez has an intensity in his eyes that usually reserved for the Octagon.

“I’m sober, I’m tired, and I’m not going to lie, I really want to f—ing hurt somebody,” Hernandez told CBS Sports on Tuesday. His words convey a sense of frustration and a burning desire for revenge against his next opponent, Gregory Rodrigues.

A Newfound Intensity

Hernandez’s upcoming fight against Rodrigues is a chance for him to redeem himself after a crushing loss to Sean Strickland. The middleweight title picture is a challenging one, and Hernandez has his work cut out for him if he wants to make a comeback.

“My goal is to drown you and make you hate your f—ing life,” Hernandez said in an interview with UFC commentator Brendan Fitzgerald. This statement showcases his aggressive approach and his determination to come out on top.

Training with the Best

Hernandez’s experience training with Sean Strickland and the Xtreme Couture crew has been a valuable learning experience. He has adjusted his strategy and is now focused on slowing down his opponents with his wrestling and weighing skills.

“Wrestling and weighing on people, I think that alone will slow him down,” Hernandez said about his approach against Rodrigues. “He’s a heavy, dangerous hard hitter. I think slowing him down would be the smartest way to victory.”

A Newfound Respect for Rodrigues

Hernandez has gained a newfound respect for Rodrigues, acknowledging his skills and abilities as a formidable opponent. He is aware that Rodrigues is a knockout machine programmed with a lifetime of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu data.

“He’s really good. It’s a game of inches,” Hernandez said. “You fight the best in the world. If you f— up, he’ll exploit you. It’s as simple as that.”

Revenge is Sweet

Hernandez is eager to take his frustration out on Rodrigues and prove himself as a force to be reckoned with in the middleweight division. He is focused on making a comeback and is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals.

“I have way too much going on in my life to think, ‘Oh no, I messed up my opportunity. Shit happens. I’m getting back to work, and I’m going to make it happen. It’s as simple as that,” Hernandez said.

With his newfound intensity and determination, Hernandez is ready to bounce back from his loss to Sean Strickland and make a name for himself in the world of mixed martial arts.