Bellator officials announced that Yoel Romero will be unable to compete in the Grand Prix next week.
The former UFC title challenger was set to face Anthony Johnson in the opening round of the light-heavyweight Grand Prix but that will have to be put on ice for the time being. Specifically, the company’s public relations department released a statement detailing that Romero failed pre-fight medical test requirements.
Yoel Romero Fails Pre-Fight Medical Testing For Bellator Grand Prix
First, the company explained that Romero did not meet the requirements for a pre-fight medical evaluation. In addition, the statement also reiterated their plans to reschedule the fight. Overall, the promotion made it clear that they are actively seeking a replacement opponent for “Rumble” Johnson for his Grand Prix opening match.
Official @BellatorMMA Statement on Yoel Romero pic.twitter.com/8XHF2rK0zZ
— Bellator Public Relations (@BellatorPR) April 30, 2021
“Yoel Romero did not clear pre-fight medical testing and as a result, his BELLATOR MMA debut against Anthony “Rumble” Jonhson has been postponed,” Officials said. “BELLATOR will confirm a tournament alternate to face “Rumble” Johnson in the Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix as soon as possible.”
Additionally, the company gave more clarity on the future of Romero in the Bellator promotion, alongside their plans to reschedule. Despite the highly anticipated fight falling apart, Bellator is adamant that the show must go on. Headlined by champion Juan Archuleta taking on Sergio Pettis on May 7, the card looks like it will be fireworks.
With one of their biggest fights falling apart, here is an up-to-date lineup for Bellator 258:
- Juan Archuleta vs. Sergio Pettis
- Patricky Pitbull vs. Peter Queally
- Michael Page vs. Derek Anderson
- Raufeon Stots vs. Josh Hill
- Johnny Eblen vs. Daniel Madrid
- Weber Almeida vs. Johnny Soto
- Henry Corrales vs. Johnny Campbell
- Erik Perez vs. Blaine Shutt
- Logan Storley vs. Omar Hussein
- Patchy Mix vs. Albert Morales
What do you make of Yoel Romero’s removal from the Bellator 258 event? Let us know your thoughts below!