In his next title defense, the champion is tasked with the undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev in UFC 319's main event this Saturday night. After his big win, Hernandez will make the trip to Chicago with the hopes he'll see his next opponent live and in person.

Hernandez's UFC stint dates to 2019 after a 5-0 start on the regional circuit, which included a win against current middleweight contender Brendan Allen. Hernandez and Allen rematched once both were in the UFC, as Hernandez came away victorious in February to take a 2-0 lead in the rivalry.

Hernandez (15-2 MMA, 9-2 UFC) made sure to make his intentions clear following his latest win at UFC on ESPN 72 Saturday at the UFC Apex. Hernandez dominated Roman Dolidze (15-4 MMA, 9-4 UFC) for more than 15 minutes before submitting him in the fourth round in the main event. In a post-fight interview in the cage, he shot his shot.