UFC Houston: Strickland returns against Hernandez

The UFC heads back to Houston, Texas on February 21, marking the promotion’s first visit to the city since 2022. The event will take place at the Toyota Center and features a key middleweight clash in the main event.

Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland returns to action as he looks to rebuild his path toward another title opportunity. The American last fought for the belt against Dricus Du Plessis after previously shocking the MMA world by dethroning Israel Adesanya in 2023.

Standing across the Octagon will be one of the division’s most dangerous rising contenders. Anthony Hernandez enters the fight on an impressive winning streak, with multiple finishes against high-level opponents. A victory over a former champion could put him firmly in the title conversation later this year.

The matchup was officially announced during a recent UFC broadcast, adding major stakes to what could become a defining fight for the middleweight rankings.

Additional bouts scheduled for the Houston card include Ode’ Osbourne vs. Alibi Idiris, with more announcements expected as the event approaches.