Anthony Hernandez
The defeat to Strickland was an important lesson for Anthony: his takedowns need to reach a new level, or he will never see a title belt. Against the powerful Brazilian, the grappler will have to use every takedown he knows. Hernandez's shots need to be lightning-fast and as unexpected as possible. Feinting overhands and constant changes of attacking angle will help set up his takedowns. On the ground, Anthony needs to go straight for a submission or trap his opponent's legs. Rodrigues will immediately start trying to get back to his feet, so Hernandez must take his neck before he finds a base.
Gregory Rodrigues
Robocop is dangerous above all because his talent and technique are backed up by serious physical power. He will therefore look to put his opponent away immediately with a heavy hook or at least force the American away from the centre of the cage. Rodrigues will pull back quickly and immediately return to Hernandez with a series of heavy strikes. If Anthony decides to take him down, Gregory will try to seize the initiative in the grappling and take up an advantageous position on the ground himself. Durability and strength are Robocop's main advantages. However, he must not overestimate himself or get drawn into prolonged exchanges on the ground, where Hernandez can catch him.
Anthony Hernandez vs Gregory Rodrigues Prediction
Hernandez often goes for the finish, especially when his opponent can finish him at any moment. Anthony has a genuine technical chance of winning, but it is not that great. Rodrigues is a physically strong fighter with decent grappling. He has already shown good jiu-jitsu skills against Park and will certainly improve further in that area before facing Hernandez. Gregory will therefore not be an easy opponent on the ground, and it is not certain that he will even allow himself to be taken down in the first half of the fight. If we compare their striking, the Brazilian is far ahead. Anthony may be able to box with him at first, but from the second round onwards, Rodrigues will work out how to put his opponent to sleep.
