Sean Strickland Secures TKO Victory Over Anthony Hernandez at UFC Fight Night in Texas

Sean Strickland's Triumph at UFC Fight Night 267

In an electrifying showdown, Sean Strickland showcased his remarkable skills by defeating Anthony Hernandez via TKO in Round 3 at UFC Fight Night 267, held at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, on February 22, 2026. The event drew an impressive crowd of 17,160 spectators, eagerly witnessing Strickland's return to the winner's circle.

At 34 years old and hailing from Anaheim, California, Strickland entered the octagon with a determination to bounce back after his recent loss to Dricus Du Plessis in a championship fight at UFC 312. Facing Hernandez, who had been on a remarkable eight-fight win streak, Strickland knew the stakes were high. Hernandez, aged 32 from El Dorado Hills, California, had built a reputation as an undefeated fighter for over five years before this bout.

The fight began cautiously, with both fighters employing strategic jabs to gauge each other's offensive capabilities. Strickland's experienced approach and effective use of his jab allowed him to control the pace while simultaneously nullifying Hernandez's offensive maneuvers. As Round 1 progressed, both competitors exchanged powerful strikes, with Strickland landing significant blows that hinted at his dominance.

Round 2 saw neither fighter backing down, as Strickland continued to utilize his precision while Hernandez sought to land knockout punches. The intensity of the match increased, building an electrifying atmosphere within the arena. However, it was during Round 3 that Strickland turned the tide decisively in his favor. A brutal knee to Hernandez's midsection followed by a series of fierce combinations led to Hernandez being dropped to the canvas.

Strickland did not relent; he unleashed relentless ground and pound on his stunned opponent, leaving the referee with no choice but to intervene. Referee Herb Dean called the fight to a halt at 2:23 of the third round, declaring Sean Strickland the winner by TKO and thus putting an end to Hernandez's impressive winning streak. The victory was not just a career milestone for Strickland; it also earned him the coveted Performance of the Night bonus of $100,000, a testament to his outstanding performance.

Reflecting on the fight, Strickland stated, "I just think when he shot at me a few times, he was like, 'Oh, maybe Sean knows how to grapple.'" His comments highlighted his tactical approach and confidence, which played a significant role in this massive win.

Sean Strickland, a former UFC Middleweight Champion, is now looking ahead with renewed ambition. Fans eagerly await his next steps in the MMA landscape. Moreover, the event confirmed Monster Energy's commitment and support for elite athletes like Strickland, reinforcing the brand's association with the world of combat sports.

For fans looking to follow Monster Energy's MMA athletes or looking for more details about the brand, their website offers insights and updates. Engaging with Monster Energy on various social media platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, is also encouraged to stay up-to-date with their latest news.

As the dust settles on this exhilarating match, all eyes are on Sean Strickland as he embarks on his next endeavor in the UFC, proving once again that he is a formidable force in the octagon.