Yoel Romero Still Knocking People Out at 48

At 48 years old, Yoel Romero is still proving that age is just a number and now he’s doing it bare-knuckle.

Making his long-awaited BKFC debut at BKFC 80 on Friday night at the Seminole Hard Rock in Hollywood, Fla., against Theo Doukas. The former UFC title contender wasted little time reminding the combat sports world of his power. In the second round, Romero unleashed a devastating flurry, dropping Doukas three times with crushing shots. After the third knockdown, the referee stepped in, waving off the bout and cementing Romero’s first statement victory in the promotion.

Before his BKFC debut, he tested himself at the Dirty Boxing Championship, where he gave fans a preview of his transition to the boxing format. Competing in the promotion’s unique ruleset, Romero showcased the same explosive striking and physical dominance that have defined his career.

That appearance not only built anticipation for his BKFC run, but also reminded fight fans that Romero’s competitive fire still burns as fiercely as ever.