Alexander Hernandez calls for ‘protection’ for fighters after betting irregularity caused UFC 324 bout cancellation

“And everyone’s covering their own ass and you’re hoping to not get f*cked in yours, so yeah, it’s a bit of, again, just uncertain territory for sure and there needs to be someone looking out for the fighter.”

Without divulging any further information, Hernandez doubled down on his innocence, joking that he now knows how legendary boxer Muhammad Ali felt when he was being monitored by government agencies during his fighting career (Ali faced scrutiny for protesting the Vietnam War).

“I mean, that was a headache and a half,” Hernandez said. “That was a stressful five weeks. It’s good to just be on the right side of it now and praying no f*ckery takes place this week. Obviously, a little bit of tension in the air over that in the back of my mind, but yeah, I’m happy to be back. We’re making jokes, I’ve felt the oppression of the people of the past here. Like, ‘Bomaye, Alex Ali’ or [Nelson] Mandela this week coming back from false accusations and get a chance to rise again. I’m just stoked. I’m stoked to be back in doing what I was decent at.

“I’m not talking to any authorities,” Hernandez added. “I don’t think the FBI comes out and issues any apologies, so it’s hard for me to speculate on where anything’s at, but I’m in the grace of the UFC and we’re fighting. I have no fears or qualms with any bureau.”

Heading into his fight with Garcia, Hernandez can only hope his fight week is free of any strangeness and he’s able to make the walk out this time. Hernandez is currently on a four-fight win streak, the longest of his UFC career.

And if any rumors come out regarding his health, they’re definitely not coming from him.

“I’m solid,” Hernandez said. “Let it be known to everyone. No rumor milling. I feel solid. I’m really fortunate to be healthy this camp and excited to perform. I really just want to put on a sick display. That’s really where my head’s at is just doing something artistic that I’m impressed by.”