UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Fans can watch the event live on Paramount+. The main event features a pivotal middleweight matchup, with former champion Sean Strickland facing off against the rising star Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez in a five-round contest that carries significant title implications.
A Crucial Event for the Middleweight Division
The middleweight division has seen a swift reshaping over the last couple of years. In August 2025, Khamzat Chimaev claimed the title by decisively defeating Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319. The undefeated champion has indicated plans to defend his title at 185 pounds just once more before moving on to chase additional championships at light heavyweight. As a result, Saturday’s main event could serve as a true title eliminator, with the winner likely positioned to challenge Chimaev next.
This will mark the UFC’s tenth event in Houston and the first since UFC 271 in February 2022, where Israel Adesanya defended his middleweight title against Robert Whittaker in front of nearly 18,000 fans.
Viewing Details
- Date/Time: Saturday, February 21, 2026 — Prelims at 5:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM PT, Main Card at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
- Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
- Streaming: Paramount+ (full card)
Fight Previews
Main Event: Sean Strickland vs. Anthony Hernandez
This matchup embodies what the middleweight division has been striving toward. Sean Strickland (29-7) is returning after losing to Dricus du Plessis in their title rematch at UFC 312 in February 2025. After a suspension due to an altercation at a Tuff-N-Uff event last summer, he’s ready to make his comeback. Now 34, the vocal Californian claims he is the only fighter in the 185-pound category who can dethrone Chimaev.
Opposing him is strong contender Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez (15-2), who boasts an impressive eight-fight winning streak, the longest in UFC middleweight history without earning a title shot. His recent victories include a dominating performance against Michel Pereira and notable submissions, indicating he’s both hungry and healthy.
The stylistic clash is intriguing; Strickland’s jab and forward momentum contrast with Hernandez’s tenacious wrestling. Predictions vary, with du Plessis suggesting Strickland’s takedown defense could counter Hernandez’s grappling. Despite Hernandez being a favorite in betting odds, Strickland’s competitive experience keeps him a live contender. The ultimate prize? Potentially a shot at Chimaev’s title.
Co-Main Event: Geoff Neal vs. Uroš Medić
Hometown fighter Geoff Neal (16-7) is set for an emotional return to Houston. He has candidly shared his five-year struggle with addiction, stating he’s now sober and more focused than ever, thanks in part to his wife and a disciplined recovery program.
His opponent, Uroš Medić (12-3), is known for his explosiveness as a finisher, boasting back-to-back first-round knockouts and a perfect stoppage record in all his UFC fights. This matchup promises excitement.
Other Notable Fights
The card also features veteran Dan Ige (19-10) against newcomer Melquizael Costa (25-7) in the featherweight division, and a heavyweight clash between Serghei Spivac (17-6) and Ante Delija (26-7), who seeks to establish himself in the UFC after winning the PFL Heavyweight Tournament.
Keep an eye on rising welterweight prospect Jacobe Smith (11-0), who faces the undefeated Seokhyeon Ko (7-0) in what is expected to be a thrilling matchup of contenders.
Lastly, the main card concludes with a middleweight bout featuring Zach Reese against the always electrifying Michel Pereira.
Stay updated with live results, fight recaps, and post-event insights at MMANews.com for UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez.
