Rafa García showcased a commanding performance against Alexander Hernandez at UFC Vegas 116. While the initial round primarily involved striking exchanges, García seized control with a successful high-crotch takedown, powerfully slamming his opponent to the canvas.
Following a closely contested first round, both fighters returned to their corners with visible facial injuries. Despite the damage, they re-engaged with potent strikes in the second round. However, García gradually gained the advantage in the latter part of the round.
Pressuring Hernandez onto his back foot, García inflicted damage, swelling his opponent’s nose and nearly executing another takedown just before the bell sounded.
Facing a likely two-round deficit, Hernandez initiated the third round with aggression. García, however, swiftly neutralized his offense, clinching Hernandez against the fence and briefly securing a takedown. Hernandez managed to break free with just over a minute remaining, but he was unable to land the crucial knockout blow he desperately sought.
The bout ultimately went to the judges’ scorecards, where García was awarded his seventh career victory within the Octagon.
Official Result: Rafa García defeated Alexander Hernandez via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27).
Rafa García Outlasts Alexander Hernandez in Electrifying UFC Vegas 116 Battle
Rafa García delivered a dominant performance against Alexander Hernandez at UFC Vegas 116. Though the first round was largely contested on the feet, García appeared to seize the advantage after executing a high-crotch takedown and forcefully bringing his opponent to the mat.
After a competitive first round, both fighters returned to their stools with blood visible on their faces. Undeterred, they resumed exchanging significant strikes in the second round. García, however, seemed to gain the upper hand as the round progressed.
Pushing Hernandez onto the back foot, García inflicted damage, cutting his opponent’s nose and nearly securing another takedown before the end of the round.
Likely trailing on the scorecards, Hernandez came out aggressively in the third round. García quickly stifled his offense, tying him up against the fence and briefly taking him down. Hernandez managed to separate with just over a minute left, but he couldn’t find the decisive knockout he needed.
The fight concluded on the scorecards, where García secured his seventh win inside the Octagon.
Official Result: Rafa García def. Alexander Hernandez via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27).
