The UFC returns to the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, for a pivotal middleweight clash that carries massive implications for the 185-pound division. UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez, set for Saturday, February 21, 2026, marks a fascinating crossroads fight. On one side, the former champion returning from a year-long hiatus; on the other, a relentless grappling machine surging toward his first title shot.
Broadcasting exclusively on Paramount+ as part of the promotion’s new media era, this event promises violence, high-level technique, and perhaps the most intriguing stylistic matchup of early 2026. Whether you are a bettor looking for value on the underdog or a fan dissecting the “Striker vs. Grappler” dynamic, this preview covers everything you need to know.
Main Event Breakdown: The Phaser vs. Fluffy
Sean Strickland (Ranked #3) vs. Anthony Hernandez (Ranked #4) is a classic clash of philosophies. Strickland, known for his unique upright stance, defensive responsibilities, and piercing jab, faces a cardio-weaponized grappler in Hernandez. With Strickland returning to action for the first time since his rematch loss to Dricus Du Plessis in February 2025, questions about ring rust and motivation are valid—but the stylistic puzzle is the real story.
Sean Strickland: The Wall of Jabs
Strickland’s game is built on simplicity weaponized to the highest degree. Utilizing a modified Philly Shell defense, he stands tall, parries shots, and walks opponents down with relentless pressure. His primary weapon is his jab, which he uses not just to score, but to disrupt his opponent’s rhythm and breathing patterns.
Against a grappler like Hernandez, Strickland’s Takedown Defense (historically hovering around 85-90% before the DDP fights) will be tested. Strickland prefers to fight at a methodical pace, forcing opponents to brawl on his terms. If he can stuff the initial shots and force Hernandez to stand, Strickland’s volume striking could turn Hernandez’s face into a mess by the third round. View his full stats on his official UFC athlete profile.
Anthony Hernandez: Weaponized Cardio
Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez has evolved from a submission specialist into a terrifying pressure fighter. His game plan is chaos. Hernandez doesn’t just look for one takedown; he looks for ten. His ability to chain wrestle, mix in elbows, and transition immediately to submission attempts makes him a nightmare for anyone who needs space to operate.
The key for Hernandez is forward pressure. He cannot allow Strickland to settle into his rhythm. Hernandez averages over 6 takedowns per 15 minutes, a staggering number that speaks to his refusal to accept a stalemate. If he can force Strickland to carry his weight and work off the back foot, the upset is highly probable.
The Prediction: Styles Make Fights
This fight will likely be decided in the clinch. Strickland is underrated in the clinch, often using underhooks to stay upright. However, Hernandez’s pace is unlike anything Strickland has faced outside of DDP. If the fight hits the mat early, Hernandez’s submission threat—particularly his guillotine and rear-naked choke—is lethal. If it stays standing, Strickland wins a decision.
UFC Fight Night Fight Card & Key Matchups
Beyond the main event, the card features heavy hitters and exciting prospects. The co-main event sees heavyweights collide, while fan-favorite “The leech” (Wait, Michel Pereira is the chaotic one, not the Leech, that’s Li Jingliang. Pereira is “Demolidor”)—Michel Pereira brings his acrobatic violence back to the octagon.
- Main Event (Middleweight): Sean Strickland vs. Anthony Hernandez
- Co-Main Event (Heavyweight): Serghei Spivac vs. Ante Delija
- Featherweight: Dan Ige vs. Melquizael Costa
- Middleweight: Michel Pereira vs. Zachary Reese
- Welterweight: Chidi Njokuani vs. Carlos Leal
- Women’s Bantamweight: Nora Cornolle vs. Joselyne Edwards
*Card subject to change. Always check the official schedule for late replacements.
Betting Angle: Value on the Former Champ?
One of the most shocking storylines heading into fight week is the odds. Early lines from major sportsbooks list Anthony Hernandez as a -250 favorite, with Sean Strickland as a +200 underdog. This is a massive shift in perception, likely driven by Strickland’s inactivity (one year layoff) and Hernandez’s dominant win streak.
For bettors, Strickland at +200 represents significant value. Despite the layoff, he has gone 25 minutes with the former champions thrice (winning one arguably, losing one close and winning one to become the champ). Hernandez has looked unstoppable against contenders, but he has never faced a defensive striker of Strickland’s caliber. If you believe Strickland’s TDD holds up, the +200 line is a steal.
How to Watch UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez
This event is part of the UFC’s exclusive partnership with Paramount+. You will not find this on ESPN+.
- Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
- Broadcast: Paramount+ (US/Latin America)
- Prelims Start Time: 6:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM PT
- Main Card Start Time: 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT
FAQ: UFC Fight Night Houston
What time does Sean Strickland fight?
The main card starts at 9:00 PM ET. As the headliner, Sean Strickland and Anthony Hernandez will likely make their ring walks around 11:30 PM ET, depending on the duration of the undercard fights.
Is UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez on PPV?
No, this is a standard Fight Night event. It is available to subscribers of Paramount+ at no additional Pay-Per-View cost.
Who is the favorite to win?
Surprisingly, Anthony Hernandez is the betting favorite (-250) heading into the bout, with former champion Sean Strickland as the underdog (+200). This reflects the market’s confidence in Hernandez’s grappling momentum versus Strickland’s recent inactivity.
Has Sean Strickland fought in Houston before?
Yes, Strickland fought at UFC 271 in the Toyota Center in February 2022, where he defeated Jack Hermansson via split decision. He returns to the same arena looking to re-establish his title claims.