Last-Minute Change at UFC Fight Night: Hernández Withdraws, Allen Steps In
An expected middleweight clash between Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez and Reinier de Ridder has been canceled. Hernandez withdrew due to an unspecified injury, according to UFC officials. De Ridder, however, will remain on the card and will face Brendan Allen instead. This 185-pound bout will be the main event of UFC Fight Night in Vancouver.Hernandez expressed his apologies to the UFC and De Ridder through social media, highlighting his focus on recovery.The UFC is searching for the next middleweight title challenger, and the original match between Hernandez and De Ridder may have significantly influenced the situation. Khamzat Chimaev was crowned champion after defeating Dricus Du Plessis by unanimous decision in August. Among the possible contenders for Chimaev are Nassourdine Imavov, Hernandez, and De Ridder, with Sean Strickland as a less likely possibility. De Ridder, who is making his fifth appearance in the UFC in less than a year, comes after a split decision victory against Robert Whittaker in July. For his part, Allen, a veteran of four years in the UFC, is coming off a decision victory over Marvin Vettori at UFC 318.I am focusing on recovering so I can come back stronger than ever.
Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez
