Anthony Hernandez carries his story on his skin. Long before he headlines UFC Fight Night 267 against former champion Sean Strickland on February 21, the UFC middleweight has been building a reputation as a grinder who thrives in deep waters. Ranked near the top of the division, ‘Fluffy’ garners attention for his relentless grappling as well as his impressive collection of tattoos adorning his body.

So what do the designs actually mean? Are they just aesthetic choices, or do they point back to the people and beliefs that shaped him? Let’s read the story behind the ink and dive a little deeper!

What is the meaning of Anthony Hernandez’s chest tattoo?

One of the most eye-catching tattoos Anthony Hernandez has is the one on his chest. There, he has an image of an owl covered in a gold rosary and surrounded by roses. Owl tattoos are often associated with witchcraft, the weather, medicine, birth, and death.

However, we don’t exactly know what it means for Hernandez. Furthermore, he also has the word ‘Juana’ on his chest, which means ‘Gift from God’ or ‘Gift of God’.

The meaning of roses with a cross often symbolizes an individual’s relationship with God. However, it can also represent the loss of a loved one. Anthony Hernandez also has a compass tattoo on his right arm, a common choice among fishermen and sailors that represents a universal symbol of fulfillment in constant travel. 

Hernandez hasn’t exactly spilled all the tea on his chest piece in interviews. But you don’t need him to; the ink speaks for itself. It’s a blend of spirituality, mystery, and personal history, all colliding right there on his chest. When he steps into the Octagon, that’s the first thing opponents see. And honestly? It’s intimidating as hell.

Are there any other tattoos on Anthony Hernandez’s body?

Oh, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Hernandez got a tattoo of his deceased father donning an Aztec headband on his neck. This isn’t just any tattoo; it shows how much respect he has for him. Hernandez has often discussed the great influence his father had on his work ethic. And each time Hernandez catches a glimpse of himself in the mirror, he’s reminded of the father who shaped him into the person he is today.

Then there’s the compass on his right arm. Originally a favorite among fishermen and sailors, the compass symbolizes fulfillment and constant travel. For a fighter who’s constantly on the road, chasing the next big fight, that one hits different.

And let’s not forget the clock tattoo on his left leg. Could be about the passage of time. Could mark an important date. Or maybe it’s just a reminder that every second counts, especially when you’re in the Octagon with someone trying to take your head off.

Hernandez once said, “Nobody will remember a dull fighter.” And he was right. But then again, all those tattoos will make people remember him anytime soon. He has more than just tattoos; they are a story of his life, tattooed onto his skin.

As he prepares for another bout against Gregory Rodrigues, which is scheduled to happen on August 22, 2026, at UFC Fight Night in Sacramento, Hernandez brings his whole story with him in the ring. His owl, rosary, “Juana,” his father, every bit of his tattoos serves as a kind of body armor.

Win or lose, Anthony Hernandez’s story is written all over him. And honestly? That’s exactly how he wants it.