Event Overview

The UFC returns to Houston for a highly anticipated Fight Night card headlined by a middleweight showdown between former champion Sean Strickland and surging contender Anthony Hernandez. This event features a mix of title implications and exciting matchups across divisions, with the main event potentially positioning the winner for a shot at the middleweight belt. Houston’s passionate MMA fanbase is expected to create an electric atmosphere at the Toyota Center, marking the promotion’s first visit to the city since 2022.

• Venue Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, United States. This arena seats up to 19,000 for MMA events and is equipped with modern facilities, having hosted multiple UFC cards known for high-energy crowds.
• Prelims begin at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PST), with the main card starting at 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PST). The Strickland vs. Hernandez main event is expected around 11:00 PM ET, streaming on Paramount+.

Injury Report

Sean Strickland has been dealing with a shoulder injury sustained during training with Reinier de Ridder, for which he sought stem cell treatment in Colombia approximately nine to ten weeks before the fight. He described being unable to move his arm initially but has since recovered sufficiently to compete. No other major injuries have been reported for Strickland leading into this bout. Anthony Hernandez withdrew from a scheduled main event in September 2025 due to a painful injury, described as “horrible” and likely an abdominal or oblique tear, which he is still managing but confirms he will be healthy for the fight. Both fighters appear cleared and ready, with no last-minute withdrawals anticipated.

Fighter Matchups: Sean Strickland vs. Anthony Hernandez

This middleweight main event features Strickland’s pressure striking and durability against Hernandez’s elite grappling and submission game. A five-round affair, it could go the distance if Strickland keeps it standing, but Hernandez’s takedown prowess suggests a potential ground battle with a 60% finish probability.

Fighter Profiles and Recent Form

Sean Strickland (“Tarzan”)

• Record: 29-7-0
• Age: 34
• Height/Reach: 6’1″ / 76″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: High-volume striking (5.95 significant strikes per minute); excellent takedown defense (over 70%); cardio for five rounds; wins over top competition.
• Weaknesses: Susceptible to power shots in recent losses; grappling vulnerabilities if taken down.

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Strickland is 3-2 in his last five, with notable wins but losses in title fights.

Anthony Hernandez (“Fluffy”)

• Record: 15-2-0
• Age: 32
• Height/Reach: 6’0″ / 75″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Elite submissions (9 career wins); strong wrestling (4.59 takedowns per 15 minutes); finishing ability (12 stoppages); eight-fight win streak.
• Weaknesses: Striking defense (44% absorption); limited experience against former champions.

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Hernandez is on an eight-fight win streak (excluding NC), with four finishes in his last five.

Fight History

This is the first meeting between Sean Strickland and Anthony Hernandez. No prior encounters or significant common opponents provide direct comparisons, but stylistically, Strickland’s stand-up pressure could clash with Hernandez’s grappling dominance.

FIGHT ODDS

Sean Strickland                 + 230

Anthony Hernandez        – 285

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 20, 2026

Event Overview

The UFC returns to Houston for a thrilling Fight Night card headlined by a middleweight clash between former champion Sean Strickland and surging contender Anthony Hernandez. This event blends veteran experience with rising talent across multiple divisions, including a women’s flyweight prelim bout between Juliana Miller and Carli Judice. Known for its passionate MMA fans, Houston hosts the UFC for the first time since 2023, promising an energetic atmosphere in a venue with a storied history of combat sports.

• Venue Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, United States. This arena seats up to 19,000 for MMA events, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and a reputation for hosting high-octane UFC cards.
• Prelims begin at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PST), with the main card at 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PST). The Miller vs. Judice fight is on the prelims, expected around 5:00-6:00 PM ET, streaming on Paramount+.

Injury Report

No major injuries have been reported for Juliana Miller or Carli Judice ahead of this bout. Miller has a history of setbacks, including a severe labrum tear in August 2023 requiring surgery, which sidelined her until May 2025. She withdrew from a scheduled fight in February 2025 due to an undisclosed injury but returned successfully. Judice has no disclosed issues, entering on a two-fight knockout streak without any reported lingering effects. Both fighters, aged 29 and 26, appear in optimal condition, though Miller’s past vulnerabilities could factor if the fight extends.

Fighter Matchups: Juliana Miller vs. Carli Judice

This women’s flyweight prelim pits a veteran TUF winner in Miller against the surging knockout artist Judice. Miller’s grappling and experience could force a ground game, while Judice’s striking power favors an early finish. Expect a competitive clash with a 55% chance of under 1.5 rounds due to Judice’s finishing rate.

Fighter Profiles and Recent Form

Juliana Miller (“Killer”)

• Record: 5-3-0 (UFC 2-2)
• Age: 29
• Height/Reach: 5’7″ / 66″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Submissions (3 wins); first-round finishes (2); UFC experience from TUF win.
• Weaknesses: Recent knockout loss; injury history; vulnerable to power strikers.

Recent Form (Last 4 Fights):

Miller snapped a two-fight skid with her 2025 win but has shown durability issues.

Carli Judice (“Crispy”)

• Record: 5-2-0 (UFC 2-1)
• Age: 26
• Height/Reach: 5’7″ / 68″
• Stance: Southpaw
• Strengths: Knockout power (5 KO/TKO wins); first-round finishes (3); momentum from recent stoppages.
• Weaknesses: Limited UFC experience; decision loss in debut.

Recent Form (Last 4 Fights):

Judice rebounded from early losses with back-to-back knockouts, showing explosive potential.

Fight History

This marks the first meeting between Miller and Judice. No prior encounters or shared opponents provide direct comparisons, but Judice’s power could exploit Miller’s past knockout loss, while Miller’s grappling might neutralize Judice’s striking.

FIGHT ODDS

Juliana Miller                    + 550

Carli Judice                         – 800

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 20, 2026

Event Overview

The UFC heads back to Houston for an electrifying Fight Night card, headlined by a middleweight bout between former champion Sean Strickland and rising contender Anthony Hernandez. The event features a mix of high-profile matchups and emerging talents, including a featherweight prelim clash between Jordan Leavitt and unbeaten prospect Yadier del Valle. With Houston’s fervent MMA fanbase, this marks the UFC’s return to the city since 2023, set to deliver intense action in a venue synonymous with memorable fight nights.

• Venue Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, United States. This arena holds up to 19,000 fans for MMA events, boasting modern facilities and a track record of hosting thrilling UFC cards.
• Prelims start at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PST), with the main card at 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PST). The Leavitt vs. del Valle bout is on the prelims, projected around 6:00-7:00 PM ET, streaming on Paramount+.

Injury Report

No substantial injuries are reported for Jordan Leavitt or Yadier del Valle entering this matchup. Leavitt, last seen in May 2025 with a quick submission win, has no noted lingering effects from prior bouts. Del Valle, following his November 2025 victory, appears fully recovered and in top form, maintaining his undefeated streak without any disclosed setbacks. Both fighters, aged 30 and 29, are poised for peak performance, though Leavitt’s history of submission losses could be a factor if the fight goes to the ground.

Fighter Matchups: Jordan Leavitt vs. Yadier del Valle

This featherweight prelim features Leavitt’s grappling expertise against del Valle’s undefeated finishing ability. Leavitt drops to 145 lbs for the first time in the UFC, potentially leveraging his experience, while del Valle’s athleticism and quick finishes could overwhelm. Anticipate a grappling-heavy affair with a 55% chance of an early end.

Fighter Profiles and Recent Form

Jordan Leavitt (“The Monkey King”)

• Record: 12-3-0
• Age: 30
• Height/Reach: 5’9″ / 71″
• Stance: Southpaw
• Strengths: Elite submissions (7 wins); quick finishes (4 first-round); UFC experience (5-3 record).
• Weaknesses: Vulnerable to submissions (2 losses); alternating wins/losses; adapting to featherweight cut.

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Leavitt is 2-1 in his last three, with finishes in wins, but submission losses expose ground risks.

Yadier del Valle (“The Cuban Problem”)

• Record: 10-0-0
• Age: 29
• Height/Reach: 5’9″ / 70″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Undefeated; quick finishes (7 first-round); submissions (4) and KOs (2); athleticism.
• Weaknesses: Limited UFC experience (2-0); untested against veterans like Leavitt.

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Del Valle is 5-0 in his last five, with three first-round subs, dominating early UFC foes.

Fight History

This is the first encounter between Leavitt and del Valle. No previous meetings or notable common opponents offer direct insights, but Leavitt’s grappling could test del Valle’s undefeated run.

FIGHT ODDS

Jordan Leavitt                   + 300

Yadier del Valle                 – 475

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 20, 2026

Event Overview

The UFC returns to Houston with a stacked Fight Night card headlined by a middleweight bout between Sean Strickland and Anthony Hernandez. This event features a blend of veteran contenders and rising stars, including a highly anticipated women’s bantamweight rematch between Nora Cornolle and Joselyne Edwards on the preliminary card. Houston’s passionate MMA community is expected to create an energetic atmosphere, marking the promotion’s first event in the city since 2023.

• Venue Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, United States. This arena seats up to 19,000 for MMA events and is equipped with modern facilities, having hosted multiple UFC cards known for their vibrant crowds.
• Prelims begin at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PST), with the main card starting at 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PST). The Cornolle vs. Edwards bout is on the preliminary card, expected around 6:00-7:00 PM ET, streaming on UFC Fight Pass and Paramount+.

Injury Report

No major injuries have been reported for Nora Cornolle or Joselyne Edwards ahead of this rematch. Cornolle recovered fully from her August 2025 unanimous decision loss to Karol Rosa, with no lingering issues noted. Edwards, riding a three-fight win streak, has shown no signs of setbacks from her recent knockouts and submission victory. Both fighters, at ages 36 and 30 respectively, appear in prime condition, though Edwards’ history of durable performances could be tested in a potential grappling exchange.

Fighter Matchups: Nora Cornolle vs. Joselyne Edwards

This women’s bantamweight prelim rematch pits Cornolle’s technical Muay Thai striking against Edwards’ aggressive finishing style. Cornolle holds a prior decision win, but Edwards enters with momentum from three straight stoppages. Expect a stand-up war with potential ground transitions, given their combined 14 knockout/submission wins, and a 65% chance of exceeding 1.5 rounds.

Fighter Profiles and Recent Form

Nora Cornolle (“Wonder”)

• Record: 9-3-0
• Age: 36
• Height/Reach: 5’7″ / 67″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Muay Thai base with knockout power (6 KO/TKO); submission ability (2); durable in decisions.
• Weaknesses: Vulnerable to volume strikers (recent decision losses); limited UFC experience against top grapplers.

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Cornolle is 2-2 in her last four UFC fights, alternating wins and losses, but her submission over Cowan highlights her versatility.

Joselyne Edwards (“La Pantera”)

• Record: 16-6-0
• Age: 30
• Height/Reach: 5’8″ / 70″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Explosive knockouts (8 KO/TKO); submission threats (3); strong in early rounds with three recent first-round finishes.
• Weaknesses: Decision-prone losses (5); can be outpointed by technical strikers as in the first Cornolle fight.

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Edwards is on a three-fight win streak with two first-round KOs, showcasing improved power and aggression.

Fight History

This is a rematch from September 2, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 226, where Nora Cornolle defeated Joselyne Edwards by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28). No shared opponents beyond this provide further direct comparisons, but Edwards’ recent evolution as a finisher contrasts with Cornolle’s technical edge in their first encounter.

FIGHT ODDS

Nora Cornolle                   + 250

Joselyne Edwards            – 325

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 20, 2026

Event Overview

The UFC makes its way back to Houston for an exciting Fight Night card, headlined by a pivotal middleweight bout between Sean Strickland and Anthony Hernandez. The event highlights a diverse array of talent across weight classes, including a compelling flyweight main card matchup between Alden Coria and Luis Gurule. With Houston’s enthusiastic MMA fanbase, this return to the city since 2023 is set to deliver high-energy action in a venue renowned for hosting memorable UFC nights.

• Venue Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, United States. This arena can hold up to 19,000 spectators for MMA events, featuring top-tier production and a history of electric UFC atmospheres.
• Prelims start at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PST), with the main card at 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PST). The Coria vs. Gurule fight is on the main card, anticipated around 8:30-9:30 PM ET, available on Paramount+.

Injury Report

No significant injuries have been reported for Alden Coria or Luis Gurule as they approach this contest. Coria, following his knockout win in September 2025, has shown no signs of setbacks and appears in peak form. Gurule, after back-to-back losses in 2025, has had sufficient time to recover without any disclosed issues from his previous defeats. Both athletes, aged 27 and 32 respectively, are expected to enter the Octagon at full capacity, though Gurule’s recent knockout loss could raise questions about his chin in high-pressure exchanges.

Fighter Matchups: Alden Coria vs. Luis Gurule

This flyweight encounter pairs a surging debut winner in Coria against a resilient but struggling Gurule. Coria brings height and finishing ability, potentially exploiting Gurule’s shorter reach in stand-up trades. The fight could end early via Coria’s power or go to the cards if Gurule’s durability holds, making it a potential highlight with a 60% chance of going over 1.5 rounds.

Fighter Profiles and Recent Form

Alden Coria (“Cobra”)

• Record: 11-3-0 (1 NC)
• Age: 27
• Height/Reach: 5’8″ / 67″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Knockout power (5 KOs); submission skills (4); strong finisher with 3 first-round wins; unbeaten in last 4 (3-0, 1 NC).
• Weaknesses: Vulnerable to decisions in close fights; one submission loss.

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Coria is on a hot streak, with his UFC debut knockout highlighting his potential as a contender.

Luis Gurule (“Grim”)

• Record: 10-2-0
• Age: 32
• Height/Reach: 5’5″ / 64″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: KO power (5 KOs); durable with 4 decision wins; strong wrestling base.
• Weaknesses: Recent UFC struggles (0-2); susceptible to knockouts (1 loss).

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Gurule seeks to rebound from UFC losses, showing resilience but needing to capitalize on his experience.

Fight History

This is the first matchup between Coria and Gurule. No prior encounters or shared opponents provide direct comparisons, but Coria’s reach advantage (3 inches height, likely similar reach) could dictate a striking battle, while Gurule’s pressure might force grappling.

FIGHT ODDS

Alden Coria                        – 275

Luis Gurule                         + 225

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 20, 2026

Event Overview

The UFC heads back to Houston for a thrilling Fight Night card topped by a middleweight showdown between Sean Strickland and Anthony Hernandez. This event showcases a blend of established stars and emerging talents across various weight classes, with a key flyweight main card bout between Ode Osbourne and Alibi Idiris drawing attention. Houston’s MMA scene is vibrant, and this marks the promotion’s return to the city since 2023, expecting a raucous crowd in a venue with a rich UFC history.

• Venue Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, United States. This arena accommodates up to 19,000 fans for MMA events and features modern amenities, making it a staple for UFC cards in the region.

• Prelims kick off at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PST), with the main card at 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PST). The Osbourne vs. Idiris matchup is on the main card, expected around 8:30-9:30 PM ET, streaming on Paramount+.

Injury Report

Neither Ode Osbourne nor Alibi Idiris has reported significant injuries heading into this bout. Osbourne competed in August 2025 without noted issues following his unanimous decision loss to Steve Erceg, showing no lingering effects. Idiris, after his submission defeat in his UFC debut in August 2025, has had ample recovery time and appears fully prepared, with no public disclosures of setbacks. At ages 34 and 31 respectively, both are in prime condition, though Osbourne’s recent submission vulnerabilities could play a role if the fight hits the mat.

Fighter Matchups: Ode Osbourne vs. Alibi Idiris

This flyweight clash features two finishers: Osbourne’s veteran savvy and reach against Idiris’ explosive power and undefeated momentum outside his UFC debut. It could be a fast-paced stand-up affair or turn into a grappling scramble, with a high likelihood of an early end given their combined 13 first-round finishes.

Fighter Profiles and Recent Form

Ode Osbourne (“The Jamaican Sensation”)

• Record: 13-9-0 (1 NC)
• Age: 34
• Height/Reach: 5’7″ / 73″
• Stance: Southpaw
• Strengths: Versatile finisher with knockout power (6 KOs) and submissions (4); strong in first rounds (8 finishes); experience in tough UFC spots.
• Weaknesses: Inconsistent (4 losses in last 6); vulnerable to grapplers (recent sub loss); age may impact durability.

ufc.com

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Osbourne is 1-4 in his last five, but his win over Gurule showed his striking flair. He’s durable but has struggled against elite competition.

Alibi Idiris

• Record: 11-1-0
• Age: 31
• Height/Reach: 5’6″ / 68″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Knockout artist (5 KOs); submission threat (2); quick finisher (5 first-round wins); aggressive style with resilience.
• Weaknesses: Limited UFC exposure (0-1 record); grapplers have exploited him (recent sub loss); shorter reach could be a factor.

Recent Form (Last 5 Fights):

Idiris is 4-1 in his last five, with his only loss in his UFC debut. His pre-UFC run was dominant, mostly by finish.

Fight History

This marks the inaugural encounter between Osbourne and Idiris. No prior matchups or shared opponents offer direct insights, but stylistically, Osbourne’s reach may keep Idiris at bay, while Idiris’ power could close the distance for a finish.

FIGHT ODDS

Ode Osbourne                  + 120

Alibi Idiris                           – 140

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 20, 2026

Event Overview

The UFC returns to Houston for an action-packed Fight Night event headlined by a middleweight clash between Sean Strickland and Anthony Hernandez. The card features a mix of rising prospects and veteran fighters across multiple divisions, with the spotlight on the welterweight preliminary bout between Chidi Njokuani and Carlos Leal. This event marks the UFC’s first visit to Houston since 2023, promising an electric atmosphere in a city known for its passionate MMA fans.

• Venue Location: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, United States. This multi-purpose arena has hosted numerous UFC events, seating up to 19,000 for MMA fights and known for its state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant crowd energy.

• Prelims begin at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PST), with the main card starting at 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PST). The Njokuani vs. Leal fight is slated for the preliminary card, likely airing around 6:00-7:00 PM ET on UFC Fight Pass and Paramount+.

Injury Report

No major injuries have been reported for either Chidi Njokuani or Carlos Leal leading up to this fight. Njokuani has dealt with weight-cutting issues in recent bouts, missing weight by 1.25 pounds in his March 2025 win over Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos and requiring extra time to make 171 pounds for his July 2025 loss to Jake Matthews. However, he appears healthy and focused on rebounding. Leal, coming off a quick knockout loss in July 2025, has no disclosed lingering effects from that defeat or prior fights. Both fighters are expected to be at full strength, though Njokuani’s age (37) and recent submission loss could factor into durability concerns.

Fighter Matchups: Chidi Njokuani vs. Carlos LealThis welterweight prelim bout pits two aggressive strikers against each other in what could be a fireworks-filled stand-up war. Njokuani, a long-time veteran with kickboxing roots, brings height and reach advantages, while Leal, a former PFL standout, relies on power and forward pressure. Expect a high-paced fight with potential for an early finish, as both have shown vulnerabilities on the ground but excel in exchanges.

Fighter Profiles and Recent Form

Chidi Njokuani (“Bang Bang”)

• Record: 25-11-0 (1 NC)
• Age: 37
• Height/Reach: 6’3″ / 80″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Elite striking with powerful knees and kicks; knockout power (18 KOs in career); experience against top competition.
• Weaknesses: Grappling defense (submitted in recent loss); weight-cutting struggles; age-related decline in speed.

Recent Form (Last 4 Fights):

Njokuani enters on a skid after a quick submission loss but had won three straight prior, showcasing his striking prowess. He’s 3-1 in his last four UFC outings, with two finishes.

Carlos Leal (“The Lion”)

• Record: 22-7-0
• Age: 31
• Height/Reach: 5’11” / 74″
• Stance: Orthodox
• Strengths: Explosive power punching (15 KOs); aggressive forward pressure; resilience in stand-up wars.
• Weaknesses: Susceptible to counters (recent KO loss); limited UFC experience (1-2 record); grappling not elite.

Recent Form (Last 3 Fights):

Leal is 1-2 in the UFC, with his sole win a highlight-reel knockout. His recent form shows boom-or-bust potential, alternating finishes with losses.

Fight History

This is the first meeting between Njokuani and Leal. No prior head-to-head encounters or common opponents provide direct comparisons. Both are primarily strikers, so stylistic analysis points to a stand-up battle where Njokuani’s range could counter Leal’s aggression.

Betting Trends

While the query mentions middleweight fights, this bout is at welterweight (170 lbs). General UFC welterweight trends include:

• Favorites win 65-70% of the time in non-title welterweight bouts since 2020, but underdogs like Njokuani have cashed at +EV in striker vs. striker matchups.
• Over 1.5 rounds hits ~60% in welterweight fights featuring two strikers, as early knockouts are common but decisions occur when range is managed.
• Knockouts account for 45% of welterweight finishes, favoring aggressive punchers like Leal. Broader MMA trends: Underdogs in prelim bouts have a 40% upset rate, and fights involving veterans over 35 (like Njokuani) often go under due to durability issues. Avoid “MMA Math” – focus on styles rather than common opponents.

FIGHT ODDS

Chidi Njokuani                  + 110

Carlos Leal                          – 130

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 20, 2026