Did Yoel Romero just take a page from Michael Bisping’s book?
The two-time middleweight title contender was expected to stick around at 185 pounds, despite teasing a jump to light heavyweight, to battle undefeated division slugger Paulo Costa at the upcoming UFC 230 pay-per-view (PPV) event in New York.
In fact, the promotion was so confident that “Soldier of God” was going to be ready for his Nov. 3 return, officials announced the main card showdown back in July. So it’s a bit of a mystery as to why “Soldier of God” waited until after contracts were sent to decide he was too injured to compete.
“The Eraser” has his own theory.
“I think he’s stalling, he wants more time to train,” Costa told Combate (via Sherdog). “When the UFC sent him the contract, he knew the fight would be in November, otherwise they wouldn’t send it. He knows it’s going to be a tough fight, everyone in the weight class knows how it is when you fight me. He doesn’t want to risk his health, especially a 41-year-old man who’s probably thinking about retiring.”
Can’t say I blame him after 32 years of hurting.
Costa (12-0) has never been to a decision in his combat sports career. Similarly, Romero (13-3) has 11 knockouts in 13 wins. I think it’s safe to say that if and when these two finally hook ‘em up, they’ll need a good supply of IV bags smelling salts.