UFC 258: Rodolfo Vieira vs Anthony Hernandez- Prediction and Analysis

UFC 258 sees an exciting middleweight clash between Rodolfo Vieira and Anthony Hernandez that comes in as the preliminary card feature. Both men are relatively inexperienced in the promotion, however, their placement on the card should speak for itself. There’s plenty to be hyped about when looking at the dominant skill set that both men bring to the table.

Additionally, there’s plenty of room for growth in the middleweight division considering that the champion has moved up in weight. This leaves the divisional contenders to pick up the pieces and try to vie for contention upon his return. A statement win in the preliminary card opener will help to do just that at the Apex Facility.

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UFC 258: Rodolfo Vieira vs Anthony Hernandez

Rodolfo Vieira is one of the most accomplished jiu-jitsu practitioners on the roster with 7 world championships to his name. He’s finished every one of his MMA fights on the ground thus far, two being in the UFC.

The Brazilian grappling phenom is excellent from top position and this allows him to attempt a variety of takedowns. His arsenal is well rounded and it becomes virtually impossible to predict his transitions once the fight hits the ground. Chiefly, the threat of being taken down also lends itself for Vieira to begin throwing heavy strikes.

Anthony Hernandez has had an interesting shake in the promotion thus far accruing a win, two losses, and a no-contest. ‘Fluffy’ last fought back in May where he was violently finished by Kevin Holland on the feet. Despite a short professional run thus far, Hernandez has managed to fight some high leveled fighters and will look to enhance his skill-set.

However, it’s hard to overlook Vieira’s dominance and his ability to make sure he brings his A-game on fight night. The fight will go to the ground at some point and it becomes virtually impossibly to pick against the Brazilian. Hernandez has shown a weakness to being overzealous in the early moments of the fight and this could cost him dearly.

 Prediction: Rodolfo Vieira to claim a second-round submission win (RNC choke)