BREAKING NEWS: The UFC middleweight division is heating up with a thrilling main event on October 18, as Reinier de Ridder faces Anthony Hernandez at UFC Fight Night in Vancouver. UFC CEO Dana White announced this highly anticipated matchup just three days after Khamzat Chimaev claimed the middleweight championship from Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 in Chicago.
This clash is pivotal for both fighters, with De Ridder (21-2) showcasing an impressive 2025 so far. The Netherlands native boasts a perfect record this year, going 3-0 against tough competition, including victories over fan favorite Kevin Holland, rising star Bo Nickal, and former champion Robert Whittaker. Since July 2024, De Ridder has gone 5-0 with four finishes, making him a formidable contender in the middleweight ranks.
Meanwhile, Hernandez (15-2), nicknamed “Fluffy,” is riding an impressive eight-fight winning streak. His most recent performance on August 9 earned him a performance bonus against Roman Dolidze, solidifying his reputation as a fighter to watch in the division. Currently ranked No. 5, De Ridder faces No. 6 ranked Hernandez, promising an explosive showdown that fans won’t want to miss.
The middleweight division is buzzing with activity, as the stakes continue to rise. In addition to this main event, White confirmed a bantamweight battle between Marlon Vera and Aiemann Zahabi, a middleweight matchup featuring Holland against Mike Mallott, and a women’s flyweight bout with Manon Fiorot facing Jasmine Jasudavicius during the Vancouver event.
With the middleweight title now in Chimaev’s hands, the question remains: Can anyone challenge his dominance? Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this matchup will influence the landscape of the division moving forward.
Stay tuned for updates as UFC Fight Night approaches, and prepare for a night filled with high-stakes action and potential title implications.
