Reinier de Ridder vs. “Fluffy” Hernandez Headlines UFC Vancouver – A Middleweight Title Eliminator with Massive Stakes
VANCOUVER, BC – The UFC confirms a high-stakes main event at UFC Fight Night 262 on October 18, 2025, as Reinier de Ridder faces off against Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez in the heart of the action at Rogers Arena. Initially part of the schedule was a title-elimination bout for Chimaev’s next challenger, and this matchup carries that exact weight.
A Contest with Title Implications
UFC President Dana White made the announcement just days after Khamzat Chimaev unseated Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319, adding fuel to the fire that this Vancouver battle might determine the next middleweight title challenger.
Reinier de Ridder (21–2), the former two-division ONE Championship titleholder, remains undefeated in the UFC—ranking fifth in the middleweight division. In 2025 alone, he’s notched wins over Robert Whittaker, Bo Nickal, and Kevin Holland.
Anthony Hernandez (15–2), also ranked sixth, enters with a thunderous eight-fight win streak, including a recent submission victory over Roman Dolidze that earned him a Performance of the Night bonus.
A Stacked UFC Vancouver Card: More Excitement Unfolds
Kevin Holland vs. Mike Malott (Welterweight)
Holland makes his fifth appearance of the year, looking to bounce back from mixed results. Malott, a rising Canadian contender, also joins the fray.
Marlon “Chito” Vera vs. Aiemann Zahabi (Bantamweight)
A high-octane clash between veterans—Vera seeks a resurgence after recent setbacks, while Zahabi rides a six-fight win streak. A matchup with major bantamweight rankings implications.
Manon Fiorot vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius (Women’s Flyweight)
A marquee women’s contest featuring elite contenders. Fiorot looks to rebound after a tough UFC 315 loss, while Jasudavicius brings momentum and technique.
Vancouver’s Return to UFC Spotlight
This event marks the UFC’s seventh visit to Vancouver—tying with Toronto for second-most hosted UFC events in Canada. The last time the promotion hit Vancouver was UFC 289 in June 2023.
