Anthony Hernandez vs Jordan Wright – A DWCS Classic
The path to UFC stardom often begins inside
Dana White’s Contender Series, and few fights captured the spirit of the show like
Anthony Hernandez vs Jordan Wright. Taking place during
DWCS 2018 Week 2, the matchup was a turning point in Hernandez’s career, showcasing his grit and finishing ability. Fans watching that night knew they were witnessing the rise of a fighter destined to compete at the highest level.
Hernandez’s Breakthrough Performance
Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez entered the cage with confidence, determined to make an impression on UFC matchmakers. Against the undefeated
Jordan Wright, he unleashed relentless pressure and striking that overwhelmed his opponent. The result was a contract-winning TKO that immediately put Hernandez on the UFC radar. That victory proved he had both the skillset and the mentality to succeed in the toughest promotion in the world.
What It Meant for Jordan Wright
For Wright, the fight was an early lesson in the unforgiving nature of DWCS. While the loss was a setback, he eventually rebounded with future opportunities inside the UFC. This bout remains a reminder of how thin the margins are when competing for a shot at the big stage.
From DWCS to UFC Main Events
Since that night, Hernandez has grown into one of the UFC’s most exciting middleweights. His grappling-heavy style and relentless pace have led him to marquee fights, and now he’s set to headline at
UFC Fight Night: De Ridder vs Hernandez. The matchup against former ONE double champion
Reinier de Ridder will test Hernandez in new ways, and fans are eager to see if he can pull off another statement win. Their clash
De Ridder vs Hernandez could shape the middleweight landscape heading into 2026.
DWCS 2025: A New Generation
This classic fight also ties perfectly into the excitement for
DWCS 2025 Week 4. Just as Hernandez once earned his contract with a show-stopping finish, a new wave of prospects is ready to seize the spotlight. The Contender Series continues to serve as the UFC’s talent pipeline, delivering future stars year after year.
Why This Fight Still Matters
Revisiting Hernandez vs Wright isn’t just about nostalgia — it’s a reminder of how careers are built in the UFC. From the Contender Series spotlight to headlining UFC events, Hernandez’s journey is proof of how quickly things can change with one breakout performance. For fans looking ahead to both UFC Paris and the next DWCS showcase, this fight is a perfect example of what the Contender Series is all about.
