Tensions are excessive between high middleweights Anthony Hernandez and Sean Strickland forward of the primary occasion of UFC Houston.
In probably the most necessary fights of 2026, former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland will attempt to cease the speedy rise of Anthony Hernandez this weekend at UFC Houston. Strickland is returning to the Octagon for the primary time since his loss to Doricus du Plessis at UFC 312 final yr, adopted by an prolonged suspension following an incident exterior the Octagon.
Strickland is thought for upsetting his opponents earlier than getting right into a combat. As a result of his lack of a filter, Strickland’s mouth typically spews controversial rants that are inclined to anger some followers.
Forward of the UFC Houston combat, Strickland posted a photograph capturing the Mexican heritage of Strickland in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) uniform and Hernandez in a sombrero. It is secure to say Hernandez wasn’t pleased about Strickland’s low cost shot.
Anthony Hernandez plans to ‘torture’ Sean Strickland after pregame ICE put up
In a latest interview, the big apple put upHernandez responded to Strickland’s controversial pregame taunt.
“Truthfully, I laughed once I noticed that. If that is what’s greatest in my head, it is going to be an extended evening,” Hernandez stated of Strickland.
“That is terrible, yeah, I do not like seeing individuals like that. I do not like that my individuals must undergo that. However tit life, and that is actuality. It is simply filth, and a few individuals wish to convey it out.
“I hope he retains that very same on-line vitality locked up in a cage as a result of I will torture him.”
The winner of Hernandez vs. Strickland may subsequent be the primary title protection for UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev. The stakes for this weekend’s fundamental occasion are even greater after latest battles.
What are your predictions for Anthony Hernandez vs. Sean Strickland? Tell us within the feedback!

