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3d ago

Brendan Allen Replaces Anthony Hernandez to Face Reinier de Ridder in UFC Vancouver Main Event

The short-notice switch injects uncertainty into the UFC’s middleweight contender race connected to Khamzat Chimaev’s next defense.

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Anthony Hernandez stares down opponent Roman Dolidze in the Octagon. Credit: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Anthony Hernandez reacts following his win over Roman Dolidze at the UFC Apex. Credit: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
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Overview

  • UFC officials confirmed Hernandez withdrew with an injury, keeping the Oct. 18 five-round headliner at Rogers Arena intact with de Ridder vs. Allen.
  • Hernandez issued a public apology on Instagram and said his focus is on recovering, with no return timeline disclosed.
  • Allen enters ranked No. 11 and is coming off a unanimous decision win over Marvin Vettori at UFC 318 after a prior two-fight skid to Hernandez and Nassourdine Imavov.
  • De Ridder is 4-0 in the UFC following a split-decision over Robert Whittaker and is a former two-division ONE champion.
  • The replacement clouds the title-eliminator picture, as fans critique the matchup and Paulo Costa says he was contacted about stepping in but sought a three-round bout that did not materialize.