Fans on social media slammed the “diabolical” matchmaking.
Former UFC light heavyweight champion, Mauricio Rua (27-14-1), will make his return to cage fighting when he collides with ex-UFC middleweight title challenger, Yoel Romero (16-7), in a 205-pound showdown under the GFL banner at some point later this year.
The promotion announced the pairing on social media; however, no date or venue was revealed with the announcement. Rua, 43, is looking to snap a three-fight losing streak. As for Romero, 47, he’s coming off a decision victory over Thiago Santos under the PFL banner.
That’s not all.
Former UFC middleweight champions, Luke Rockhold (16-6) and Chris Weidman (16-8), will remain at 185 pounds and run it back for GFL. In addition, ex-UFC middleweight, Uriah Hall (17-11), makes his GFL debut against former Bellator MMA champion Douglas Lima (33-12).
Our first confirmed matchup:
The All-American @chrisweidman takes on @LukeRockhold in a highly anticipated rematch between 2 former champions! pic.twitter.com/pZeOfTWJHx
— Global Fight League (@mmagfl) February 13, 2025
Oh you thought we were finished?
Matchup Announcement!
Team LA’s @UriahHallMMA takes on former Bellator champ and team São Paulo’s own @PhenomLima! pic.twitter.com/bUamLs85Wk— Global Fight League (@mmagfl) February 14, 2025
It’s hard to consider these bouts “official” without a confirmed date or venue, particularly in light of all the issues GFL has been having with its current talent. Hopefully the promotion can make an announcement revealing those details in the coming days.