UFC Fight Night: Dolidze vs Hernandez, scheduled for August 9, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, stands out as a compelling middleweight showdown between Roman Dolidze and Anthony Hernandez, two fighters at the top of their division with much to prove. This event presents an intriguing clash of styles and career trajectories, with both athletes looking to reinforce their status in a highly competitive weight class.
Roman Dolidze, a 37-year-old Georgian powerhouse, brings a well-rounded skill set highlighted by his striking and submission ability. Entering the fight with a 15-3 professional record, Dolidze is riding a three-fight winning streak after defeating Marvin Vettori by unanimous decision in March 2025 a victory that avenged his loss to Vettori a year prior. Dolidze’s game is characterized by his aggressive grappling and sharp striking, making him a tough opponent to handle. He has shown durability and tactical smarts, relying on his versatility to adapt mid-fight. Dolidze’s camp has emphasized the importance of maintaining pressure and controlling the pace, signaling a strategic approach that could neutralize Hernandez’s strengths.
On the other side, Anthony Hernandez, 31, is a relentless, jiu-jitsu-centric fighter with a record of 14-2. He enters this bout on an impressive seven-fight win streak, demonstrating exceptional ground skills and an ever-improving striking arsenal. Known for his grit and persistence, Hernandez has gone unbeaten since his loss to Kevin Holland in May 2020, continually refining his technique and fight IQ. His background as a former LFA Middleweight Champion underscores his high-level credentials. Hernandez’s camp has highlighted his patient pressure and submission threats, along with a steady improvement in stand-up exchanges, making this a multifaceted challenge for Dolidze.
Headlining this event, the fight carries significant implications for the middleweight rankings. Both men are ranked within the top 10 at middleweight, staking their claim for a possible title eliminator or even a future title shot. Analysts see this as a pivotal moment: a win for either fighter could catapult them into immediate contention in a division that remains wide open following recent upheavals.
Coach insights and fighter quotes add human depth to the fight narrative. Dolidze remarked in an interview, "I am focused and ready to execute my plan. Hernandez is tough, but I believe my mixture of striking and grappling will dominate the Octagon." Meanwhile, Hernandez stated, "I’ve worked hard to sharpen every aspect of my game. I respect Dolidze’s power, but I’ll bring my fight to him and make sure I come out on top."
The event includes a strong supporting card featuring bantamweight contenders and flyweight matchups, further highlighting the depth of talent showcased at UFC Apex events. Fans can watch the prelims starting around 4 p.m. ET on ESPN+, with the main card following at approximately 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.
In prediction terms, this fight is a classic stylistic matchup: Dolidze’s physicality and multifaceted attack versus Hernandez’s elite grappling and cardio. Expect a tactical battle with potential for ground exchanges, but also sharp striking exchanges on the feet. If Hernandez can impose his grappling and control the clinch, he could edge out a decision or submission. However, if Dolidze keeps the fight standing and utilizes his striking volume, he may secure a decision victory or late finish.
UFC Fight Night: Dolidze vs Hernandez promises an electrifying middleweight clash filled with technical prowess, grit, and high stakes. Both fighters will be eager to impress and move closer to a championship opportunity, making this event a must-watch for MMA fans in August 2025.
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