Hardy backs Hernandez against Du Plessis after Chimaev loss

Former title challenger Dan Hardy proposes Anthony Hernandez as the next opponent for Dricus du Plessis following UFC 319.

Hardy backs Hernandez to face Du Plessis after Chimaev loss

Dricus du Plessis lost to Khamzat Chimaev in a one sided decision at UFC 319 in Chicago, ending his run in the title mix. Dan Hardy floated Anthony Hernandez as the next challenger, while other contenders like Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho are also in the mix for future title opportunities. Hernandez has built momentum with eight straight wins, including a recent victory over Roman Dolidze, and has publicly pushed for a big showdown. If he lands the fight, the stakes would be high and the pacing of the middleweight title picture could shift quickly.

Hernandez’s push contrasts with the Chimaev-Du Plessis result, which many see as a rematch unlikely in the near term. The Paris main event between Imavov and Borralho is viewed as a potential title eliminator, complicating the ladder but still keeping the door open for aDu Plessis return against a rising name. The proposed matchup with Hernandez emphasizes a fan friendly, high energy style that would keep the division in the spotlight while the belt waits for clarity.

The suggestion of a Hernandez matchup signals a broader strategy: use dynamic, crowd pleasing fights to keep a champion’s profile active after an off night. Matchmaking like this can sustain pay-per-view interest even when the title picture is unsettled. The risk is betting too much on a rising contender before the unit proves itself against top-tier competition. A well marketed, competitive bout could reset momentum for Du Plessis, but it also risks sidelining other contenders who deserve a clear path back to title contention.

In the bigger frame, the UFC seems to be balancing two goals at once: reward rising stars who can carry the sport's narrative forward, and protect the integrity of the title chase. The outcome of Imavov vs Borralho and Hernandez’s momentum will reveal which path the division favors next and how quickly it can reboot the title chase for mid- weight.

Highlights

The next moves will shape how the middleweight division builds a new chapter.