The main event of UFC Houston promises an exciting middleweight clash: former champion Sean Strickland (29-7), currently ranked No. 3 and coming off a recent loss to Dricus du Plessis, will face the red-hot contender Anthony ‘Fluffy’ Hernandez (14-2, 1 NC), who boasts an impressive eight-fight winning streak. This bout holds significant stakes, potentially leading to a title fight opportunity.
Former welterweight title challenger Belal Muhammad offered his breakdown and prediction for the fight. Despite admitting a personal dislike for Strickland, Muhammad aimed to provide an unbiased analysis.
For Strickland, Muhammad predicts a heavy reliance on his jab and teep kicks, expecting over 150 such strikes. He highlights that the teep kick could be particularly effective against Hernandez, as ‘Fluffy’ has shown a vulnerability to body shots, evidenced by past encounters with Kevin Holland (who finished him with a body shot) and Michel Pereira (who rocked him with one). Muhammad advises Strickland to maintain jab and teep distance, preventing Hernandez from initiating his grappling game and constant pressure.
Regarding Hernandez, Muhammad recommends an early attack, emphasizing takedowns and targeting the body rather than just the legs. He believes ‘Fluffy’ needs to make Strickland work from the outset, frustrating him and denying him opportunities to land his signature jab and teep kicks. Hernandez should consistently move forward, pressuring Strickland against the fence. Muhammad sees Hernandez’s high pace as a crucial factor.
Ultimately, Muhammad picked Hernandez to win, believing that ‘Fluffy’ will set a pace too difficult for Strickland to keep up with. He expressed his desire to see Hernandez break Strickland.
