After a week off, the UFC returns this weekend with an event in Houston. For its main event, the promotion has matched former champion Sean Strickland against Anthony “Fluffy” Anthony Hernandez, one of the rising faces of the middleweight division.
In a 185-pound division that could see major changes if champion Khamzat Chimaev moves up in weight, this fight could determine the next contender to face Nassourdine Imavov for the title.
And this matchup should provide answers, on several fronts.
It starts with Sean Strickland. After his second loss in the rematch against Dricus du Plessis in a title fight, the American openly clashed with members of his own team. While tensions appear to have cooled, questions remain, especially if the fight does not go his way.
A former champion, Strickland has long had a reputation as a reliable company man. That status helped him secure a title shot in 2023 against Israel Adesanya, an opportunity he capitalized on with his awkward, disruptive striking style. His boxing will once again be a key factor against Hernandez, who thrives on imposing his wrestling and pressure.
Hernandez’s last win over Roman Dolidze perfectly illustrated his identity: relentless pressure, constant volume, and a suffocating pace that breaks opponents physically and mentally. His cardio could become a major weapon over five rounds. The finishing sequence in that bout was particularly striking, with Hernandez dragging his opponent to the cage before forcing the tap, a clear example of his grinding, submission-heavy approach.
In the co-main event, the UFC looks to push Serbian prospect Uroš Medić against Geoff Neal. A win could propel Medić into the top 15, especially as rumors swirl about a potential UFC event in Serbia.
Elsewhere on the card, Melquizael Costa will try to enter into the featherweight top 15 against Dan Ige. Ante Delija looks to rebound against Sergei Spivac, while France’s Nora Cornolle gets a rematch with Joselyne Edwards.
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