What's Happening?
Brendan Allen achieved a significant upset victory over Reinier de Ridder at UFC Vancouver, held at Rogers Arena. Allen, with former UFC champion Belal Muhammad in his corner, managed to stop de Ridder after four rounds. De Ridder initially dominated
with his wrestling skills, but Allen turned the tide in the second round, applying effective ground-and-pound techniques. By the fourth round, de Ridder was exhausted and unable to continue, leading to Allen's victory by TKO. This win disrupts de Ridder's four-fight winning streak in the UFC and positions Allen as a top contender in the middleweight division.
Why It's Important?
Brendan Allen's victory over Reinier de Ridder is significant for the UFC middleweight division, as it reshuffles the rankings and potential title contenders. Allen's performance demonstrates his resilience and ability to compete at a high level, potentially setting him up for future high-profile fights. The win also honors Allen's late coach, Duke Roufus, adding an emotional layer to the victory. For de Ridder, the loss is a setback in his pursuit of a title shot against the new middleweight champion, Khamzat Chimaev. This outcome may lead to new matchups and rivalries within the division, impacting the UFC's event planning and fan engagement.
What's Next?
Following his victory, Brendan Allen called out both Khamzat Chimaev and former champion Dricus du Plessis, indicating his desire to face top-tier opponents. The UFC may consider these matchups for future events, potentially elevating Allen's status within the organization. For Reinier de Ridder, the focus will likely be on recovery and strategizing for a comeback to regain his position as a title contender. The UFC will continue to monitor the middleweight division closely, as the outcomes of these potential matchups could influence the division's landscape and future title fights.
