Hugo Guillon sees UFC chance slip after Hernandez loss

Hugo Guillon’s route to the UFC has been pushed back after the French heavyweight lost the opportunity that could have secured his entry into the organisation. His defeat by Luis Hernandez at the Dana White’s Contender Series in Las Vegas leaves any future path open, but removes the immediate chance to join the UFC roster.

Guillon, 29, entered the bout with seven wins and one defeat, while Hernandez was unbeaten in seven professional fights. The result was Guillon’s second career loss, in a contest where victory was particularly important for his prospects of being selected. A UFC place had appeared within reach before the fight.

Guillon made a strong start and dropped Hernandez with a right hand early in the second round. After Hernandez recovered, the Frenchman took the fight to the ground and tried to finish there. Hernandez escaped the hold, moved behind Guillon and secured a rear-naked choke. Guillon tapped three times on the canvas to end the contest.

The loss does not make a UFC career impossible, but it means Guillon will not be joining the organisation now. The Contender Series serves as a route for fighters seeking selection, and Hernandez’s unbeaten record remained intact after the decisive submission.