Hernandez Seizes Unexpected Noche Possibility, Feels “Already Winning”
SAN ANTONIO, TX – Alexander Hernandez is embracing a rapid return to the cage, securing a spot on the highly anticipated Noche UFC card after a first-round finish just weeks prior. Initially believing a hometown fight on the October 14th card was out of reach, Hernandez now finds himself preparing for a notable matchup against a rising opponent.
Hernandez admitted to a moment of disbelief after his recent victory. “I went to bed, didn’t think about it all the next day, then the day after, I woke up and it just hit me,” he said. “I was like, man, you’ve got to do this. This is an opportunity and a half and I dunno whether it’s manifestation or just a good narrative, but I like the part I’m playing, so I’m going to keep playing it.” The quick turnaround, following his fight against Hooper less than a month before, was unexpected.
The opportunity materialized after a decisive first-round victory. “Lo and behold, we get a real clean first round finish and I’m like, ‘oh s**t, there’s a chance I might fight on Noche,” Hernandez explained. While tempted to savor the win, he recognized the fleeting nature of momentum. “A part of me just wanted to rest on my laurels for a second and enjoy it. But man, it’s juicy. and again, you’ve got to strike with the iron’s hot because it isn’t going to sizzle for long, so you got to take advantage.”
Facing an opponent on a three-fight win streak, Hernandez feels confident and prepared. “You can’t ask for a better matchup. And I’m healthy and well and I’m hungry. It’s a good opportunity, and I feel like I’m already winning,” he stated. Hernandez views the situation as low-risk, high-reward. “Whoever’s writing this script, I like the part I’m playing, I’m going to keep playing it, and it’s almost like we kind of lined up this narration.I’m just going to keep playing the character. So I don’t think we have anything to lose.”
