The UFC is making a highly anticipated return to Houston this weekend after a four-year absence. The focus will be on the middleweight division as former champion Sean Strickland faces rising contender Anthony Hernandez in a five-round main event. Both fighters are eager to secure a title shot against the reigning champion, Khamzat Chimaev.
Fighter Profiles
Sean Strickland returns to the octagon after a year-long hiatus. His last match took place at UFC 312, where he lost a unanimous decision to Dricus Du Plessis. Complicating his return, Strickland recently completed a six-month suspension due to actions at a regional MMA event.
In contrast, Anthony Hernandez is riding a notable eight-fight winning streak. The 32-year-old fighter has earned performance bonuses in three of his last four bouts, including a notable August victory over Roman Dolidze via submission.
Event Details
The clash between Strickland and Hernandez headlines a 14-fight card at the Toyota Center. All participating fighters successfully made weight ahead of the event. Fight fans will be able to watch this exciting matchup on El-Balad, starting Saturday, Feb. 21 at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT.
Undercard Highlights
The lineup also features several intriguing matchups:
- Geoff Neal vs. Uros Medic
- Dan Ige vs. Melquizael Costa
- Serghei Spivac vs. Ante Delija
- Jacobe Smith vs. Josiah Harrell
- Zachary Reese vs. Michel Pereira
- Chidi Njokuani vs. Carlos Leal
- Punahele Soriano vs. Ramiz Brahimaj
- Philip Rowe vs. Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani
- Ode’ Osbourne vs. Alibi Idiris
- Alden Coria vs. Luis Gurule
- Nora Cornolle vs. Joselyne Edwards
- Jordan Leavitt vs. Yadier del Valle
- Juliana Miller vs. Carli Judice
Fight Predictions and Betting Insights
UFC analysts and reporters have weighed in on the upcoming matchups. According to predictions, Hernandez is viewed as a strong favorite against Strickland, primarily due to his recent performance streak.
A summary of betting odds includes:
- Cage Lock: Anthony Hernandez -278
- Favorite: Alibi Idiris -133
- Underdog: Zach Reese +135
- Dart Throw: Leal vs. Njokuani to go the distance +450
With both fighters aiming for a title shot, fans can expect a thrilling showdown in Houston. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Strickland and Hernandez in their quest to dominate the middleweight division.
