Get ready for a night of intense MMA action as UFC makes its long-awaited return to Houston, Texas, after a four-year hiatus, with a middleweight showdown that’s bound to shake the octagon! Former champion and current No. 3 contender Sean Strickland (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/sean-strickland) is set to clash with the hard-hitting No. 4 ranked Anthony Hernandez (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/anthony-hernandez) in a bout that could redefine the division. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Strickland reclaim his dominance, or will Hernandez prove he’s the future of the middleweight class? Let’s dive into the rest of the card, where every fight tells a story.
Juliana Miller vs. Carli Judice
In a battle of skill and determination, Carli Judice emerged victorious over Juliana Miller via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27). Judice’s precision and strategy paid off, leaving Miller with a tough lesson in the process. Official Result: Carli Judice (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/Carli-Judice) defeated Juliana Miller (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/Juliana-Miller) by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27).
Jordan Leavitt vs. Yadier del Valle
Wait, there seems to be a mix-up here! The official result actually shows Alden Coria (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/Alden-Coria) defeating Luis Gurule (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/Luis-Gurule) by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27). A dominant performance that left no doubt in the judges’ minds. And this is the part most people miss: Coria’s rise could be a sleeper story of the year.
Ode' Osbourne vs. Alibi Idiris
In a surprising turn of events, Alibi Idiris (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/Alibi-Idiris) outlasted Ode’ Osbourne (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/Ode-Osbourne) with a unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28). Idiris’s tactical approach proved to be the difference-maker in this closely contested fight.
Chidi Njokuani vs. Carlos Leal
While this fight was listed, the official result wasn’t provided. However, fans can expect fireworks whenever these two step into the octagon.
Zach Reese vs. Michel Pereira
In a split decision that had the crowd on the edge of their seats, Michel Pereira edged out Zachary Reese (29-28, 29-28). Pereira’s unconventional style once again proved to be a game-changer, leaving Reese with a narrow loss.
Jacobe Smith vs. Josiah Harrell
Another bout that promises excitement, though the result wasn’t included. Keep an eye on these rising stars as they look to make their mark.
Don’t miss UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez (https://www.ufc.com/event/ufc-fight-night-february-21-2026), live from the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, on February 21, 2026. Prelims kick off at 5 PM ET/2 PM PT, followed by the main card streaming live on Paramount+ (https://www.paramountplus.com/) at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT. This event is packed with action, drama, and potential upsets—perfect for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike.
Controversy Alert: Is Sean Strickland’s experience enough to fend off Anthony Hernandez’s rising momentum? Or will Hernandez’s aggression be too much for the former champ to handle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
