Anthony Hernandez stuns Sean Strickland in UFC Houston main event

Hernandez's relentless grappling overwhelms Strickland in fourth-round submission victory

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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In the main event of UFC Houston, Anthony 'Fluffy' Hernandez pulled off a shocking upset over former champion Sean 'Tarzan' Strickland, submitting him in the fourth round via rear-naked choke. Hernandez's relentless grappling pressure and cardio proved too much for Strickland, who struggled to implement his trademark jab-heavy striking game.

Why it matters

This result shakes up the middleweight division, as Hernandez emerges as a new contender with his eighth straight victory. Strickland's loss snaps his own impressive run and raises questions about his ability to handle high-paced grapplers who can disrupt his rhythm.

The details

Hernandez came out aggressively, repeatedly shooting for takedowns and forcing Strickland to defend. While Strickland had success with his jab early, Hernandez's constant pressure and transitions eventually wore him down. In the fourth round, Hernandez secured a dominant position on the ground and locked in the fight-ending rear-naked choke, forcing Strickland to tap out.

  • The fight took place on Saturday, February 19, 2026 at UFC Houston.
  • Hernandez secured the fourth-round submission victory over Strickland.

The players

Anthony Hernandez

A rising middleweight contender who entered the fight on an eight-fight win streak, known for his relentless grappling pressure and cardio.

Sean Strickland

A former UFC middleweight champion looking to rebound after a recent title fight loss, known for his effective defensive striking and jab-heavy style.

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What they’re saying

“I knew I had to bring the pressure and not let Strickland settle into his rhythm. My cardio and grappling were the keys to wearing him down and getting the finish.”

— Anthony Hernandez (UFC.com)

“Hernandez was the better man tonight. He never let me get comfortable and his constant attacks eventually broke me down. I'll have to go back to the drawing board.”

— Sean Strickland (UFC.com)

What’s next

Hernandez's victory likely earns him a top contender fight as he continues his rise up the middleweight rankings. Strickland will look to rebound and work his way back into title contention.

The takeaway

This main event showcased the unpredictable and dynamic nature of the UFC middleweight division, where a relentless grappler like Hernandez can upset an elite striker like Strickland through sheer pressure and determination.