Anthony Hernandez: Stats | Ethnicity | Wife | Age | Fighting Style

Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez is one of the most compelling figures in the UFC Middleweight division — blending aggressive grappling with submission mastery and relentless pressure. Rising from humble beginnings to become a top-ranked contender, Hernandez’s journey has captivated MMA fans worldwide.

In this in-depth guide, we explore his career stats, personal life (including ethnicity and family), fighting style, notable wins, setback, and what makes him one of the most dangerous middleweights today.

Who Is Anthony Hernandez?

Anthony Hernandez is an American professional mixed martial artist currently competing in the Middleweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Born on October 18, 1993, Hernandez has steadily climbed the ranks thanks to his high-pressure style and elite submission game.

Nicknamed “Fluffy,” Hernandez stands out not just for his fighting style but also for his gritty journey from California to one of MMA’s biggest stages.

Anthony Hernandez’s MMA Career and Stats

Here’s a breakdown of his key professional stats:

Professional MMA Record:

• Overall Record: 15 Wins – 2 Losses – 1 NC

• UFC Record: 9 W – 2 L

• Finishes:

  • KO/TKO Wins: 3

  • Submission Wins: 9

  • Decision Wins: 3

This diverse finishing ability highlights Hernandez’s versatility — capable of ending fights standing up or on the ground.

Fight Stats

• Average Fight Time: ~10:27 minutes

• Submission Wins: 60% of total wins

• Takedown Defense: 68%

• Significant Strike Defense: 50%

• Reach: 75 in

• Height: 6’0″ (183 cm)

• Weight: 185 lb (84 kg) (Middleweight)

• Stance: Orthodox

He’s known for his strength in grappling control and ground-based submissions while still being a dangerous striker when needed.

UFC Journey: From Debut to Top Contender

Early Career and UFC Debut

Hernandez turned professional in MMA in 2014 and fought in promotions like Global Knockout and Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) before earning his UFC call-up. He captured the LFA Middleweight Championship and built momentum that led to his signing with the UFC.

UFC Debut

• Date: February 2, 2019

• Opponent: Markus Perez

• Outcome: Loss by submission (anaconda choke)

Despite the early setback, Hernandez demonstrated resilience by bouncing back, refining his game, and earning key wins that pushed him up the UFC rankings.

Breakthrough Wins

Over the years, Hernandez logged significant victories, including:

• Submission over Rodolfo Vieira (UFC 258) – Performance of the Night

• KO/TKO win vs Michel Pereira

• Submission win vs Roman Kopylov

• Unanimous decision vs Brendan Allen

• Submission vs Roman Dolidze

These victories solidified him as one of the most well-rounded middleweights in the world.

Current Status

As of late 2025 – early 2026, Hernandez is ranked in the Top 5 in the UFC’s Middleweight division and continues to be a serious contender for a title shot.

Ethnicity and Background

Anthony Hernandez was born in Dunnigan, California, U.S. and is American by nationality. Ethnically, Hernandez is of Mexican descent, and this heritage is deeply meaningful to him personally. Despite being born in the U.S., he identifies strongly with his Mexican roots and has aimed to represent Mexico on fight night — a goal that was briefly complicated by UFC flag-representation policies requiring proof of heritage.

His father was born in Mexico and was later smuggled into the United States, and Hernandez has discussed the cultural influence this had on his upbringing.

Personal Life: Wife and Family

Anthony Hernandez is married to Kristie Hernandez. While not frequently in the public spotlight, Kristie plays a central role in his personal life and often supports him behind the scenes. Hernandez is also a father and prioritizes family even as he trains and competes at the highest level of MMA.

Not much detailed information is publicly available about Kristie’s age or background, as she leads a relatively private life compared to her husband.

Fighting Style Breakdown

Anthony Hernandez’s fighting style can be described as well-balanced pressure MMA, with a core emphasis on:

Grappling and Submissions

• Hernandez excels in scrambling and offensive grappling.

• Most of his wins (60%) have come via submissions — particularly guillotine chokes and rear-naked chokes.

Striking and Takedowns

• His striking, though less flashy, is calculated to set up grappling entries.

• Excellent takedown offense mixed with solid strike pressure makes him difficult to keep at bay.

Cardio and Fight IQ

• One of his significant strengths is relentless forward pace and gas tank — allowing him to maintain pressure for long stretches.

• He combines wrestling entries with seamless transitions into submissions.

Summary

Hernandez’s style is not purely one-dimensional. Instead, it’s a blend of strength, grappling, and strategic pressure, which makes him unpredictable and effective against opponents who struggle with pace and ground control.

Career Highlights and Records

Here are some of the standout achievements of Hernandez’s MMA career:

• Top 5 Ranked UFC Middleweight Contender

• Multiple Performance of the Night bonuses

• LFA Middleweight Champion

• Notable victories vs top contenders

• Eight-fight winning streak

His submission finishes have often drawn praise, including a rare guillotine choke victory over seasoned grappler Rodolfo Vieira.

Why Anthony Hernandez Is a Fighter to Watch

Here’s what makes Hernandez stand out among MMA contenders:

• Well-rounded skill set – Striking + grappling + submissions
• Strong takedown and control game
• Versatility under pressure
• Rising contender status in UFC Middleweight division
• Deep personal motivation and work ethic

Fans and analysts alike often highlight his ability to adapt mid-fight and capitalize on opponents’ mistakes — a signature trait of elite fighters.

FAQs About Anthony Hernandez

1. How old is Anthony Hernandez?

Anthony Hernandez was born on October 18, 1993, making him 32 years old as of early 2026.

2. What is Anthony Hernandez’s fighting style?

Hernandez’s style blends grappling, submissions, and pressure striking. He is known for his strong ground control and submission prowess.

3. Is Anthony Hernandez married?

Yes, Hernandez is married to Kristie Hernandez, who supports him personally and professionally.

4. What is Hernandez’s ethnicity?

He is American by nationality and of Mexican descent, strongly identifying with his Mexican roots.

5. What is his UFC record?

As of late 2025, his UFC record stands at 9-2, with multiple finishes and wins over top contenders.

6. Has Hernandez won any performance awards?

Yes — he has earned several Performance of the Night bonuses for standout performances in the Octagon.

Conclusion

Anthony Hernandez’s MMA journey is a testament to determination and skill. With his balanced blend of grappling, submissions, striking pressure, and relentless work ethic, he has made a mark in the UFC Middleweight division and continues to climb the ranks. Whether you’re a fan tracking his next fight or a newcomer discovering his story, Hernandez remains one of MMA’s most intriguing figures today.