Brendan Allen stands at a pivotal moment in his career as he prepares for a rematch against Anthony Hernandez at UFC Fight Night 252. With a professional record of 24 wins and 6 losses, including 12 victories during his tenure in the UFC, Allen has established himself as a formidable force in the middleweight division. However, the recent unanimous decision loss to Nassourdine Imavov has loomed over him, snapping a seven-fight winning streak that showcased his resilience and skill inside the octagon. As he heads into this critical bout, Allen is determined to reclaim his momentum and demonstrate the fighter he has become.
After the defeat to Imavov in September, Allen has reflected deeply on his performance. While he acknowledges feeling disappointed in himself, he also attributes some aspects of that fight to unforeseen circumstances, emphasizing that he does not want to dwell on excuses. This mindset conveys a sense of accountability that is crucial for an athlete at his level. Recognizing the need to learn from setbacks, Allen’s motivation to return stronger has become a defining feature of his character. “Coming off a loss, I’m always a different monster,” he shared with MMA Junkie Radio, hinting at an explosive transformation he undergoes after facing adversity.
The matchup against Hernandez presents Allen with a unique opportunity for redemption. These two fighters first met in January 2018 at LFA 32, where Allen lost by unanimous decision. Since that initial encounter, both fighters have evolved significantly. However, Allen believes that he has made more substantial growth and is eager to showcase that transformation in the upcoming fight. Given that Hernandez is currently enjoying a six-fight winning streak, which includes five finishes, the stakes are high for both competitors.
This rematch is not only a chance for Allen to avenge an earlier defeat but also to halt Hernandez’s momentum, which could solidify Allen’s status within the division. Allen’s ranking at No. 11 reflects the potential he has to contend for a title shot, but he understands that performances speak louder than rankings. “My performance is going to tell it all,” he asserted, highlighting his eagerness to prove himself once more.
The challenge Allen faces extends beyond just a single fight; it encapsulates his journey in professional mixed martial arts. He remarked about his interactions with the UFC regarding fight opportunities, noting the frustrations he encountered. His desire to face opponents ranked above him, and the insufficient responses from the promotion, depict a fighter who craves competition and aims for the highest levels of the sport.
What makes this rematch particularly intriguing is the mutual respect that exists between Allen and Hernandez. Allen has openly praised Hernandez as a “great human,” emphasizing that the fight is purely business and not personal. This acknowledgment of respect between fighters is crucial in combat sports, where adversarial rivalries are commonplace. Such respect may foster a more tactical and disciplined approach to the bout, as both fighters look to execute their game plans without the cloud of animosity.
Allen’s confidence in his abilities stems from a series of intense training sessions and a mental shift that comes with preparation for a significant fight. He is keenly aware that a decisive victory over Hernandez could not only avenge his past but also position him closer to title contention. He expressed hope that after the fight, fans and analysts would recognize his potential and reaffirm his place among the elite.
As Brendan Allen approaches this crucial rematch, the landscape of the middleweight division awaits his return to form. Undoubtedly, the outcome of this fight could define his trajectory in the UFC, either propelling him back into title contention or requiring him to re-evaluate his strategy moving forward. With the passion and hunger for redemption driving him, the clash with Anthony Hernandez will not just be a test of skill; it will be a battle of wills, determination, and a quest for personal growth. As fans and analysts alike anticipate the showdown, one can only wonder what the future holds for Allen—an athlete poised for greatness in the unforgiving arena of mixed martial arts.