Anthony Hernandez trains with Sean Strickland ahead of UFC Sacramento

Anthony Hernandez is training with UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland ahead of his UFC Fight Night 285 headliner against Gregory Rodrigues in Sacramento, California, scheduled for August. Hernandez, currently ranked No. 6 at middleweight, is looking to bounce back after his eight-fight win streak was halted by Strickland via third-round TKO in Houston earlier in 2026. Despite pre-fight tension between the two fighters, they shared a respectful moment after their bout, which has now blossomed into a training partnership. Hernandez posted an Instagram photo following the session, thanking Strickland and his team for welcoming him and sharing "tips and tricks." Strickland responded with a comment reading "6 weeks of fun!" suggesting an extended training camp. Rodrigues, ranked No. 12 in the division, will be Hernandez's next opponent as he works his way back up the middleweight ladder. Meanwhile, Strickland, fresh off his title victory against Khamzat Chimaev, is eyeing his first title defense, with potential challengers including Chimaev or Nassourdine Imavov—both middleweights he has previously defeated.