Yoel Romero has inked his bareknuckle boxing debut.
The former UFC title challenger is set to make his first appearance for BKFC against Theo Doukas at BKFC 80 on Sept. 12 at Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, Fla. The bout will be contested at heavyweight. The news of Romero’s debut was announced by the promotion on Tuesday.
Romero, 48, signed with BKFC in July. He was coming off two KO finishes competing in Mike Perry’s Dirty Boxing Championship – which is a striking competition with small gloves but doesn’t involve any grappling or groundwork. “The Soldier of God” is mainly known for his 10-year run in the UFC where he fought for the middleweight title multiple times and cemented himself as one of the world’s best. After his UFC departure, Romero had a short stint with Bellator and PFL, going 3-2.
Although now competing in bareknuckle boxing, Romero told MMA Junkie last month that he’s still looking to continue his MMA career.
Romero’s opponent, Doukas, will also be making his BKFC debut. Doukas has competed four times in MMA, going 2-2. His two victories have come by way of stoppage. He last competed in MMA in April 2024 and was submitted in the second round. He’s also 1-0 in boxing.
