The main event for UFC Vancouver on October 18th has been hit with a major curveball. In a huge blow to the middleweight division, Anthony Hernandez has been forced to pull out of his highly anticipated bout with Reinier de Ridder due to injury. But for fight fans, the show must go on, and veteran Brendan Allen has stepped up on short notice to fill in and take on one of the division’s toughest fighters in a high-stakes main event.
This is a pivotal fight for both men, with serious title implications on the line. Reinier de Ridder, also known as “The Dutch Knight,” has been on a tear since joining the UFC, and is currently ranked No. 4 in the middleweight division. He was looking to cement his contender status with a big win over Hernandez, but a victory over Allen would be just as meaningful. De Ridder’s opponent, Brendan Allen, is a seasoned veteran who will be stepping in to face a top-tier opponent in a moment that could completely reshape his career.
The Betting Odds and Stakes Are High
As soon as the fight was announced, the betting lines were released, giving us a glimpse into what oddsmakers think. According to early odds from BetOnline.ag, Reinier de Ridder is the betting favourite at -155, while Brendan Allen is the underdog at +135. These odds reflect the general consensus that De Ridder is a top contender, but they also show a lot of respect for Allen’s skills, particularly as he is taking the fight on short notice. Fans and bettors alike will be watching closely to see if these odds shift as we get closer to fight night.
The implications of this fight go far beyond the odds. A dominant victory for De Ridder would likely propel him into the discussion for a title shot, especially after his impressive win over Robert Whittaker earlier this year. For Brendan Allen, this is a massive opportunity to rebound from past defeats and prove he belongs in the upper echelon of the middleweight division. A win would not only re-establish him as a top contender but would also put him on a path towards a future title shot.
Fighter Profiles: Grappling vs. Grit
On paper, this is an incredibly intriguing style matchup. Reinier de Ridder is known for his suffocating grappling and submission skills. With a pro record of 21 wins and only 2 losses, his ability to finish fights on the ground has made him a nightmare for opponents. His latest win over a fighter of Whittaker’s calibre proves he’s a serious threat to anyone at 185 pounds.
Meanwhile, Brendan Allen, with a record of 25-7, is no stranger to tough fights. He’s faced a number of top contenders in the past, including Anthony Hernandez himself back in February. While Allen has had setbacks against strong grapplers, his overall grit and willingness to stand and trade on the feet with anyone make him a dangerous opponent. This fight will come down to whether Allen can keep it standing and use his striking or if De Ridder can get him to the mat and do what he does best.
The Road to a Title Shot
A victory for Reinier de Ridder at UFC Vancouver would solidify his status as a major player in the middleweight title picture. He’ll be looking to make a statement that puts him ahead of other top contenders like Nassourdine Imavov. For Brendan Allen, a win would be a huge boost to his career and a chance to get back in the conversation for a title eliminator bout down the line. Both fighters have everything on the line, making this main event a must-watch for any die-hard UFC fan.
