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The UFC’s October card in Vancouver has taken on a new look after a shake-up at the top of the bill. An injury to Anthony Hernandez has forced the middleweight contender out of his scheduled fight against Reinier de Ridder, leaving the promotion to turn to Brendan Allen as the replacement headliner. With the bout set for October 18 at Rogers Arena, both athletes will now compete with significant implications for the middleweight title picture.

Allen Seizes a New Opportunity

Brendan Allen, just outside the middleweight top ten, has stepped in on short notice to face one of the division’s fastest risers. The 29-year-old owns a 25-7 record, with 13 wins in 17 UFC bouts since earning his spot through Dana White’s Contender Series in 2019. According to the Gameshub esports betting guide, Reinier de Ridder enters the bout as the favourite, with many of the top online bookmakers pricing him at odds of −155. That line has left fans and punters alike confident that de Ridder will prevail in this headline clash, while also driving betting activity on platforms that promote competitive UFC odds along with perks such as fast payouts, welcome rewards, free bets, and boosted odds, making the upcoming fight one of the most anticipated on the card.

However, while Brendan Allen is the underdog going into this fight with his odds set at +135, he is a fighter fans and punters alike shouldn’t write off.  In July at UFC 318, he outpointed Marvin Vettori in a fight-of-the-night performance, snapping a two-fight skid against Anthony Hernandez and Nassourdine Imavov. Known for resilience, skill, and a submission game that ranks second all-time in UFC middleweight history, Allen’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu background continues to fuel his success. Facing Reinier de Ridder now gives him a chance to push higher in the rankings at a moment when the division is shifting fast.

De Ridder Continues His UFC Surge

Reinier de Ridder transitioned smoothly from a decorated run in Asia’s ONE Championship to the UFC in 2024. Since then, he has quickly established himself as a top contender. The 35-year-old Dutch fighter has collected four straight wins since signing with the organization, defeating Gerald Meerschaert, Kevin Holland, Bo Nickal, and former champion Robert Whittaker. The split decision over Whittaker in his last outing marked his arrival among the elite, securing him the number four spot in the middleweight rankings.

De Ridder’s reputation was already strong before joining the UFC. As a former champion in both the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions of One Championship, he built a résumé defined by grappling dominance, versatility, and a willingness to fight at the highest level. His UFC run has only strengthened the view that he belongs in the title conversation.

Against Allen, de Ridder will look to demonstrate that his rise is not a brief surge but a sustained push toward championship contention. With a record of 25 wins and 2 losses, he has shown both consistency and adaptability, two qualities that will be vital against an opponent as dangerous on the ground as Allen.

The State of the Middleweight Division

The middleweight landscape has shifted dramatically in recent months. Khamzat Chimaev currently holds the championship after defeating Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319. Chimaev’s victory disrupted what had been a tightly contested race at the top, opening the door for a fresh wave of contenders.

Nassourdine Imavov, who sits second in the rankings, remains a central figure in this mix after a unanimous decision win over Caio Borralho earlier in September. With Chimaev newly crowned and several top contenders jockeying for position, the Allen versus de Ridder matchup has arrived at an ideal moment to clarify the pecking order.

The winner in Vancouver could make a compelling argument for a future title shot, especially if the performance is decisive. While Imavov appears closest to a championship opportunity, a statement victory for either Allen or de Ridder could shift the conversation.

Styles and Matchup Dynamics

The upcoming main event is a clash of grapplers. Allen thrives on pace, using scrambles and transitions to wear opponents down before finishing with slick jiu-jitsu. His pressure often forces mistakes, and he rarely misses the chance to capitalize.

De Ridder brings a similar game, with heavy top control, tight chokes, and the confidence to dictate exchanges on the mat. Lately, though, his striking has started to catch up, making him a more well-rounded threat.

Since both men shine on the ground, the fight may come down to who adjusts better when their strengths cancel out. If Allen pushes early and keeps the heat on, he could throw de Ridder off rhythm. However, if de Ridder sets the pace and uses his striking to control distance, he has the tools to blunt Allen’s attack.

The Stakes in Vancouver

The stakes are high for both fighters. For Allen, stepping in on short notice gives him a risky but potentially career-changing shot at a top-five contender. A win could push him straight into title contention, while the gamble of late preparation makes the challenge even greater.

De Ridder faces pressure of his own. Already viewed as a leading contender, he needs to confirm that status by beating a dangerous, motivated opponent. Victory would strengthen his case for a championship fight, but defeat could halt his momentum and change the division’s landscape in Vancouver.

Conclusion

The UFC Vancouver main event has taken on new significance as Brendan Allen steps in to face Reinier de Ridder. Set for October 18, the bout offers both men a chance to move closer to Khamzat Chimaev’s title, promising fans a contest shaped by skill, ambition, and high stakes.