UPDATE: In a stunning upset, UFC middleweight Brendan Allen defeated Reinier de Ridder at UFC Fight Night in Vancouver on October 14, 2023, forcing de Ridder to quit between rounds four and five. This unexpected turn marks a significant moment in Allen’s career, and the implications are profound for both fighters.
Accepting the fight on short notice, Allen (26-7) declared his intent to break de Ridder (21-3), and he delivered with a dominating performance. After initially struggling in the first round, Allen turned the tide, showcasing impressive grappling skills that exhausted his opponent.
According to UFC Stats, Allen achieved over 11 minutes of control time, landing 128 total strikes compared to de Ridder’s 51. The decisive moment came when de Ridder, visibly fatigued, could barely return to his corner after the fourth round. Referee Jason Herzog closely monitored the situation before de Ridder’s corner made the critical decision to throw in the towel.
“It feels good to do exactly what I said I would do,” Allen stated post-fight. “This was me 3.5 weeks off the couch. I told you I’m a different monster. When my head is clear and we’re on, I’m the best in the world.”
This victory not only snapped de Ridder’s four-fight winning streak but also positions Allen as a serious contender in the middleweight division. After the match, Allen called out current UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, as well as former champions Dricus Du Plessis and Sean Strickland, setting the stage for potential high-stakes matchups in the near future.
Allen entered the fight ranked No. 9 in the UFC middleweight division, while de Ridder held the No. 4 spot. The co-main event also featured a significant win for Canadian welterweight Mike Mallott (13-2-1), who defeated Kevin Holland (28-15) by decision. Meanwhile, Aiemann Zahabi (14-2) climbed the bantamweight ranks with a split decision victory over former title challenger Marlon Vera (23-11-1).
As the dust settles from this explosive fight night, all eyes will be on Allen as he seeks to capitalize on his newfound momentum and challenge for the title. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this victory reshapes the landscape of the UFC middleweight division.
