Card Change: Hernandez Withdraws, Allen Steps in Against De Ridder
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, who remains on the card, will now face Brendan Allen in the main event of UFC Fight Night in Vancouver.
Hernandez, through a post on social media, apologized to the UFC and De Ridder, expressing his focus on recovering to return stronger.
Post by Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez
The UFC is looking for the next middleweight title contender. The original fight between Hernandez and De Ridder may have influenced the situation. Khamzat Chimaev, who defeated Dricus Du Plessis, is the current champion.
Possible challengers for Chimaev include Nassourdine Imavov, Hernandez, and De Ridder, with Sean Strickland as a possibility.
De Ridder, in his fifth UFC appearance in less than a year, is coming off a split decision victory against Robert Whittaker. Allen, a four-year UFC veteran, is coming off a decision victory over Marvin Vettori.
