Gregory Rodrigues Praises Anthony Hernandez After UFC Sacramento Win: “We Are Not Enemies”

Gregory Rodrigues delivered another impressive performance at UFC Sacramento, defeating Anthony Hernandez by unanimous decision in a hard-fought main event. Despite the intensity of their battle inside the Octagon, Rodrigues praised Hernandez after the fight and emphasized that the two fighters are not enemies.

The victory marked Rodrigues’ fourth consecutive win and handed Hernandez his second straight defeat. Following the contest, the Brazilian middleweight took to social media to share a message of respect for his opponent.

Rodrigues highlighted the sacrifices both fighters make for their families and explained that their rivalry inside the Octagon does not change the respect they have for each other outside it.

“2 warriors who step into the Octagon to fight, to provide for their families, and to build a better life for the people they love.”

He continued by making it clear that the competitive nature of MMA does not mean the fighters have personal animosity toward one another.

“At the end of the day, We are not enemies. We are two men doing our job, carrying the same responsibility and fighting for the same reason: our families.”

Gregory Rodrigues Calls Anthony Hernandez One of His Toughest Opponents

Rodrigues also singled out Hernandez for his toughness and said he had gained a great deal of respect for the American following their battle in Sacramento.

“I have a lot of respect for you. And I can say this for sure, You are the One of the toughest guys I’ve ever faced.”

The Brazilian also thanked Hernandez for the fight and the lessons he learned during their lengthy contest. Rodrigues described the night as unforgettable and ended his message by reiterating his respect for his opponent.

“Thank you for the battle, for everything I learned in there, and for an UNFORGETTABLE night in Sacramento. Nothing but respect.”

Anthony Hernandez Accuses Gregory Rodrigues of Illegal Glove Grabbing

While Rodrigues focused on the mutual respect between the two fighters, Hernandez had a different perspective on certain moments during the bout. Speaking after the loss, the American praised Rodrigues’ toughness but accused him of grabbing the inside of his gloves during the fight.

Hernandez claimed he repeatedly brought the issue to referee Herb Dean but felt that no significant punishment was given. He expressed his frustration while discussing the controversial moments from the contest.

“He is a tough son of a b****. I hit him with everything and the kitchen sink, hit him with some hard elbows, f***, he was cheating, and grabbing the inside of my gloves.”

Hernandez said he informed Dean about the alleged glove grabs several times and believed Rodrigues should have been warned more seriously. However, the referee did not deduct a point from the Brazilian.

Rodrigues Extends Winning Streak With UFC Sacramento Victory

The win was another important step forward for Rodrigues, who has now won four fights in a row. The 34-year-old Brazilian continues to build momentum in the UFC middleweight division after overcoming another demanding opponent.

For Hernandez, the result extended a difficult stretch after suffering his second consecutive defeat. Nevertheless, the fight demonstrated the competitiveness of both athletes, with Rodrigues ultimately securing the judges’ decision.

Despite Hernandez’s complaints about the glove grabbing, Rodrigues chose to focus on the respect between the two competitors. His post-fight message highlighted the human side of professional MMA, where fighters can engage in intense competition while still appreciating the sacrifices made by their opponents.

What’s Next for Gregory Rodrigues and Anthony Hernandez?

Rodrigues will now look to build on his four-fight winning streak and continue his rise in the UFC middleweight division. A stronger opponent could be waiting for him in his next appearance as he attempts to move closer to the division’s upper ranks.

Hernandez, meanwhile, will need to regroup following consecutive losses. The American will likely be focused on returning to the win column and rebuilding his momentum in his next UFC outing.