Urijah Faber Names Anthony Hernandez as the Man Most Likely to Beat Khamzat Chimaev

Overview

• Faber points to Hernandez’s relentless cardio, sharpened wrestling and high-level grappling work with Eliot Kelly, Ryan Loder and the “grappling boys” as the blueprint to trouble Chimaev.
• Hernandez (15-2, 9-2 UFC) faces Strickland at UFC Fight Night 267 on Feb. 21 in Houston, a matchup reported as a potential No. 1 contender bout on Paramount+.
• Strickland has labeled Hernandez the “American Chimaev,” underscoring stylistic parallels fueling the contender buzz.
• Strickland’s coach Eric Nicksick says their plan emphasizes keeping the fight off the mat and exiting ground exchanges quickly if they occur.
• Chimaev remains unbeaten after a title-clinching win over Dricus Du Plessis, carrying a reported 15-0 record (9-0 UFC).