UFC Houston: Anthony Hernandez, Sean Strickland looking to earn title fight with win in main event
CBS Sports
by
Brian Campbell
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
UFC Houston will feature a pivotal middleweight clash between Anthony "Fluffy" Hernandez and Sean Strickland, both vying for a potential title shot against champion Khamzat Chimaev. Hernandez, riding an impressive eight-fight win streak, is determined to prove his championship credentials, having learned from early career setbacks that success requires discipline, health, and focus. Meanwhile, Strickland, a former interim champion with a reputation for high-level grappling, believes his experience and skill will give him the edge despite entering as the underdog.
Hernandez, who faced struggles in his early UFC bouts but has since transformed into a dominant force, attributes his turnaround to prioritizing his well-being over financial incentives. His decision to withdraw from a key fight last year due to injury allowed him to regroup and build momentum for this crucial matchup against Strickland. Hernandez views the fight as an ideal stylistic match, where his strengths as a striker and wrestler can shine against Strickland’s grappling prowess.
Strickland, however, is confident in his ability to counter Hernandez’s game plan. He argues that Hernandez has never faced a grappler of Strickland’s caliber and mocks the idea that he could be defeated by someone who hasn’t tested their skills against similar challenges. Despite his bold claims, Strickland knows he faces an uphill battle, as Hernandez’s momentum, coupled with his own struggles in recent title bouts, make him the betting underdog.
The fight is a must-win for both men. For Hernandez, victory would solidify his status as one of the top contenders at 185 pounds and potentially secure a title opportunity sooner than expected. Strickland, on the other hand, needs a strong performance to regain momentum after a rocky 2024 campaign and prove that he still belongs among the elite in the UFC.
This clash is more than just a bout between two accomplished fighters—it’s a high-stakes test of skill, strategy, and mental fortitude. With both men pushing for a title shot, the stakes are as high as ever, making this one of the most anticipated fights of the year. Fans will be watching to see if Hernandez can maintain his momentum or if Strickland’s experience and tenacity will carry him through.
Verticals
sports
Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/19/2026