Anthony Hernandez targets UFC title without drugs at UFC Sacramento

Anthony Hernandez has completed 50 clean tests under the UFC’s anti-doping programme ahead of his UFC Sacramento main event. The fighter, who has a 15-3 record with one no contest, will face Gregory Rodriguez in his second consecutive UFC main-event assignment.

Hernandez collected a letterman jacket to mark the testing milestone, which covers his time in the UFC programme dating back to the USADA era. Only a small number of fighters have remained in the promotion long enough to reach 50 clean tests.

The achievement reflects a personal stance Hernandez has made central to his career. He wants to become the best fighter in the world without using enhanced drugs and has identified winning the championship as his main objective.

He also spoke about the practical demands of the UFC’s anti-doping system. The most inconvenient test location he recalled came while he was preparing to go dirt biking. Hernandez said the testers contacted him and arranged the process, allowing the sample to be collected despite the awkward timing.

Hernandez believes athletes who follow the UFC’s programme should have little difficulty passing its tests. He contrasted that approach with fighters who choose to use steroids, presenting drug-free competition as part of the standard he expects from himself.

The 15-3 fighter also wants his career to carry a message beyond the cage. He comes from a town of about 700 people and hopes his progress can show others that leaving a small community and building a different life is possible through focus and sustained effort.

That message will accompany Hernandez into his meeting with Rodriguez at UFC Sacramento. His immediate task is to continue the run that has earned him another main-event opportunity while pursuing the championship goal he has set for himself.