UPDATE: In a stunning upset, UFC middleweight Brendan Allen defeated Reinier de Ridder by corner stoppage in the fourth round at UFC Fight Night in Vancouver on October 14, 2023. Taking the fight on short notice, Allen (26-7) showcased his resilience and skill, forcing de Ridder (21-3) to quit after an exhausting battle, marking a significant turning point in his career.
Allen, who had just 3.5 weeks to prepare, dominated the grappling exchanges, accumulating over 11 minutes of control time and landing 128 total strikes compared to de Ridder’s 51. Despite a shaky start, where he struggled in the first round, Allen turned the tide, showcasing his superior stamina and strategy.
As the fight progressed, de Ridder showed visible signs of fatigue, barely making it back to his corner after the fourth round. Referee Jason Herzog closely assessed de Ridder before his corner ultimately decided to throw in the towel, ending de Ridder’s four-fight win streak in the UFC.
“I told you I’m a different monster,” Allen stated post-fight. “When my head is clear and we’re on, I’m the best in the world.” His performance not only secured him a coveted victory but also positioned him firmly in the middleweight rankings, where he is now ranked No. 9.
Immediately after the bout, Allen called out top contenders including UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, as well as former champions Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland. “Chimaev, if you want a good grappler, someone young and hungry, you got it baby,” he said, signaling his intent to climb the ranks even further.
In the co-main event, Canadian welterweight Mike Mallott (13-2-1) secured a decision victory over Kevin Holland (28-15), while Aiemann Zahabi (14-2) continued his ascent in the bantamweight division with a split decision win over former title challenger Marlon Vera (23-11-1).
This thrilling night of fights at UFC Fight Night has set the stage for intense future matchups, particularly for Allen, who is eager to capitalize on his momentum. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his callouts are received and what steps he takes next in his quest for the middleweight title.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the implications it holds for the UFC middleweight division.
