Get ready, fight fans! A highly anticipated rematch nearly a decade in the making is set to ignite the UFC's return to Houston in early 2026. This is more than just a fight; it's a chance for redemption, a test of time, and a clash of wills.
The UFC has been steadily unveiling its schedule for the start of 2026, with the first three numbered events already generating significant buzz. These events will be broadcast on Paramount+ and include exciting matchups like Paddy Pimblett's interim title fight against Justin Gaethje, Alexander Volkanovski's rematch with Diego Lopes, and a BMF clash between Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira.
But amidst these major cards, several UFC Fight Nights are scheduled, including one at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. This event will feature a compelling welterweight rematch between two fighters who know each other intimately.
- THROWBACK: Nate Diaz lost to ex-UFC champion after being fined for a big fight week mistake he has never repeated.
Which UFC event are you most looking forward to at the start of 2026?
This first quarter of the year is shaping up to be massive, including the UFC's huge card at the White House.
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Geoff Neal vs. Kevin Holland 2 Announced for UFC Houston
Geoff Neal, currently ranked at No. 14 in the welterweight division, is looking to regain his footing after a string of losses. His recent brutal knockout loss to Carlos Prates at UFC 319 has put him out of the title picture. At 35 years old, Neal is determined to bounce back in 2026, and he'll have the opportunity to seek revenge for a defeat that happened nearly a decade ago in Dallas.
Neal was previously defeated by Kevin Holland in 2017 before either fighter had made it to the UFC. Their fight at Xtreme Knockout 34 ended in the third round, with Holland securing a TKO victory and earning the promotion's vacant middleweight crown.
Holland is coming off a two-fight losing streak and is looking to repeat his past success against Neal in their rematch at UFC Houston on February 21. Holland announced the rematch on his Instagram account, expressing his excitement and reflecting on how much has changed.
- LATEST NEWS: Joe Rogan would have told Conor McGregor to pull out of one huge UFC fight if they were friends.
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Sean Strickland will return in the main event of UFC Houston
The schedule for the start of the new year is coming together, and the main event for the UFC's return to Houston on February 21 will feature Sean Strickland. He will face Anthony Hernandez, with both fighters vying for a shot at Khamzat Chimaev's middleweight title later in 2026. This will be Strickland's first fight since being suspended due to an altercation at a regional event where he was in the corner for one of his teammates.
This incident recently resurfaced, leading to Strickland being banned from UFC 323 in Las Vegas.
Do you agree with Sean Strickland being banned from UFC 323?
He's banned from competing and cornering, but should he be banned from simply showing up to support friends?
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Strickland aims to put these recent incidents behind him and focus on returning to winning ways after failing to get his revenge on Dricus du Plessis in their rematch last February.
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But here's where it gets controversial...
What are your thoughts on this exciting fight card? Do you think Neal can avenge his loss, or will Holland repeat his past victory? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!
