The UFC Houston Fight Night is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing cards of early 2026, with the main event featuring a high-stakes middleweight matchup of former titleholder Sean Strickland vs Anthony Hernandez.
Scheduled for February 21, 2026, this battle inside the Toyota Center in Texas has fans and analysts buzzing about its impact on the middleweight rankings and possible title contention implications.
Strickland vs Hernandez: Middleweight Showdown
At the center of UFC’s return to Houston is the headline fight between Strickland and Hernandez, two fighters with very different recent trajectories.
Strickland, once the UFC Middleweight Champion, steps back into the Octagon after a loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 312 in Sydney in 2025.
That performance marked his first defeat in nearly a year and ended his hopes of staying atop the division.
Hernandez, on the other hand, arrives on a notable win streak, having secured victories in eight straight fights thanks to a blend of grappling and striking that has impressed both fans and experts.
He’s viewed as a dangerous opponent for anyone at 185 pounds, and many oddsmakers currently favor him to beat Strickland at UFC Houston.
What Du Plessis Thinks About the Fight
In a recent breakdown ahead of UFC Houston, Dricus du Plessis weighed in on the matchup and shared his thoughts on how this fight could unfold.
Known for his own strategic and pressure-based fighting style, du Plessis highlighted the challenges both men present and why this clash will be a defining moment in their careers.
While du Plessis didn’t offer a traditional prediction, he noted the unique dynamics at play when veterans like Strickland face young, hungry contenders like Hernandez.
Du Plessis, who has previously beaten Strickland in title fights, suggested that Hernandez brings a level of unpredictability that makes preparations difficult.
He emphasized Hernandez’s physicality and tenacity as key factors that could tip the balance in Houston.
Strickland’s Perspective and Motivation
For Strickland, UFC Houston is more than just another fight it’s a chance to regain momentum in the middleweight division.
After losing his title rematch to du Plessis, Strickland has been vocal about his desire to return to championship-level competition.
His recent comments indicate that he sees Hernandez as one of the most challenging opponents he’s faced, partly due to Hernandez’s relentless pace and grappling prowess.
Strickland has described training for Hernandez as mentally and physically demanding, underscoring just how tough he expects this five-round battle to be.
Given his experience against top names like Israel Adesanya and Paulo Costa, many believe Strickland is well-equipped to handle the pressure but Hernandez’s momentum cannot be overlooked.
Hernandez’s Climb and What’s at Stake
Anthony Hernandez has quietly become one of the most respected fighters in the middleweight class.
His diverse skill set, characterized by effective submissions and strong striking, has earned him performance bonuses and high rankings inside the UFC.
A win against Strickland could very well move him closer to a future title shot, especially if he dominates throughout all five rounds.
Hernandez’s aggression and grappling ability make him a tough matchup for anyone. His performance at UFC Houston could define his career trajectory, placing him firmly in conversation for championship contention if he handles Strickland convincingly.
Prediction, Expectations, and Takeaways
As fight night approaches, the MMA world is evenly divided on how this main event plays out. Some analysts see Hernandez’s momentum and diverse game plan giving him the edge, while others believe Strickland’s experience and veteran savvy will be the deciding factor in a close matchup.
What’s clear is that UFC Houston’s headline fight promises to be intense, tactical, and pivotal for both men’s futures in the middleweight division.
Fans tuning in on February 21 should expect a hard-fought contest that could shift the division’s landscape depending on the result.