UFC veteran Yoel Romero explains decision to sign with BKFC, still plans on continuing MMA
HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – Yoel Romero is expanding his portfolio in the combat sports world.
The former UFC title challenger and fan-favorite fighter will be taking his talent to bareknuckle boxing, as he's signed with leading promotion BKFC. It was a move that excited many fans given Romero's power, athleticism, and rawness. The move to BKFC was something had been brewing for several years, but just now did all the pieces come together.
"When I left the UFC, (BKFC) was always very interested," Romero told Hablemos MMA in Spanish. "In fact, that's when I came to know about them and we had a meeting with my manager, so there was a possibility there, but I wanted to continue fighting in MMA. So now that I leave Bellator, I was going to start with GFL, but now after what happened with GFL, we're looking for the best options to fight. Dave again reached out, along with Conor McGregor, who likes me, and said, 'Now is the time. Stop saying no, now is the time.'"
A big selling point for Romero to sign with BKFC was the promotion willingness to allow him continuing his storied MMA career. Despite being signed with BKFC, Romero is able to fight in MMA and work with any promotion he wishes.
"They did a great job because BKFC did a great job with my manager by giving me the opportunity, but also staying flexible. I can do BKFC, but also continue doing MMA," Romero said.
"There are several organizations that are still interested in me fighting for them in MMA. But remember, everything has to be right with the purse. Everything has to be right with the purse. When you get to a certain level, the pay has to be right. You have legacy. You have name. So we're in agreement with BKFC: We're in. Now we're just negotiating the details of my debut in the ring."
Apart from his brutal performances, Romero has made a name for himself being an ageless wonder. The 2000 Olympic Silver medalist in wrestling turned 48 this past April and continues to deliver knockouts. As mentioned in the past to MMA Junkie, "The Soldier of God" plans to match Bernard Hopkins retirement age of 52 and then call it quits, so long his body holds up.
"That's the first thing I always have in mind: Bernand Hopkins," Romero said. "I plan on retiring at 52, but retire well, without taking a beating. That's why I live a very clean life and stay disciplined, to have a long career."
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