"The change did not get a welcome reception from fans as many were very upset they weren't getting the perceived #1 contender fight between RDR and Fluffy. De Ridder now takes on #11 contender coming off a decision victory over Marvin Vettori, but having a recent two-fight losing skid. " I mean it's a fine fight but to go from RDR - Fluffy to RDR - Brendan Allen is a pretty sizable downgrade in terms of hype," one X user said."
"Middleweight contender Paulo Costa began posting on X about being offered a short-notice bout against a top middleweight earlier in the day. Paulo Costa insinuates that he got offered RDR on short notice after Fluffy pulled out.... #UFCVancouver pic.twitter.com/zUb77yqZW2 - Cageside Press (@Cagesidepress) September 16, 2025 Costa insinuates that he was offered de Ridder, but asked for three rounds with the lack of time to prepare. Seems like RDR said no and the promotion moved on to Allen instead."
Anthony Hernandez withdrew from his scheduled UFC Vancouver middleweight bout against Reinier de Ridder, and Brendan Allen stepped in on short notice. Paulo Costa posted on X suggesting he was offered de Ridder on short notice but requested a three-round fight due to limited preparation; de Ridder reportedly declined and the promotion selected Allen. Fans expressed strong displeasure at losing the perceived #1 contender matchup between de Ridder and Hernandez. Allen enters as the No. 11 contender coming off a decision win over Marvin Vettori but carrying a recent two-fight skid. The outcome raises uncertainty about next title contention and rankings.
Read at Cageside Press
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