What's Happening?
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to return to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, for an event at Rogers Arena on October 18, 2025. The event, streamed live on ESPN+, will feature a main
event between Reinier de Ridder, a former ONE Championship double champion, and Brendan Allen, a seasoned UFC contender. De Ridder, who has maintained an undefeated record of 4-0 since his debut in the UFC, was initially scheduled to fight Anthony Hernandez. However, Hernandez withdrew due to injury, and Allen stepped in as his replacement. The co-main event will see Kevin Holland face off against Canadian fighter Mike Mallott. The event will also include appearances by notable fighters such as Marlon Vera, Manon Fiorot, Matt Frevola, Charles Jourdain, and Drew Dober. The ceremonial weigh-ins, featuring all 26 athletes, are scheduled to be streamed live on YouTube, providing fans with a final look at the fighters before the event.
Why It's Important?
The UFC Vancouver event is significant as it showcases a mix of established fighters and rising prospects, potentially impacting the rankings and future matchups within the UFC. Reinier de Ridder's fight against Brendan Allen is particularly noteworthy as it could propel the winner closer to a title shot in the middleweight division. The event also highlights the UFC's continued expansion and popularity in Canada, a key market for the organization. For fans, the event offers a chance to see a diverse lineup of fighters, each with unique styles and backgrounds, contributing to the sport's global appeal. The inclusion of Canadian fighter Mike Mallott in the co-main event may also boost local interest and support for the event.
What's Next?
Following the UFC Vancouver event, the outcomes of the fights could lead to significant changes in the fighters' careers and rankings. A victory for Reinier de Ridder could solidify his status as a top contender in the middleweight division, potentially setting up a future title fight. Similarly, a win for Brendan Allen could rejuvenate his career and position him for more high-profile matchups. The results of the co-main event between Kevin Holland and Mike Mallott will also be closely watched, as both fighters aim to climb the welterweight rankings. The UFC will likely continue to leverage its events in Canada to strengthen its presence and fan base in the region.
