Yoel Romero runs through replacement opponent in jaw-breaking Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA debut

Yoel Romero made his Gambred Bareknuckle MMA debut a successful one, and it was at the expense of a late replacement opponent.

Romero was expecting to meet fellow ex-UFC star Hector Lombard inside Sephora Arena in Miami this past Friday. Lombard ultimately withdrew from the fight, insisting that he didn’t have enough time to prepare for “The Soldier of God.” Alex Nicholson stepped up to face Romero and he took an aggressive approach early on. Nicholson landed a knee to the body before being dumped to the canvas with a takedown.

Romero rained down punches before the fight was stopped. While the finish seemed abrupt initially, it soon became clear that Nicholson suffered a jaw injury and could not continue. The 49-year-old Romero was awarded the TKO victory via submission due to strikes.

Romero continues to be an attraction as he gets closer to the age of 50. While his latest bout was bareknuckle MMA, he’s also dabbled into bareknuckle boxing and has had two bouts under the Dirty Boxing Championship banner. “The Soldier of God” has even had two freestyle wrestling matches for RAF.

What’s next for Romero remains to be seen, but he’ll likely want to stay active. Perhaps he can revisit a clash with Lombard once the former Bellator Middleweight Champion is ready to compete.

Meanwhile for Nicholson, this is his third straight MMA loss. He also suffered a defeat to Robinson Perez at DBX 2 back in June 2025. Nicholson’s latest victory took place back in Sept. 2024 when he defeated Zac Pauga at XFC 51.

What do you think is next for Yoel Romero? Does he attempt to get a fight with Hector Lombard rebooked? Will he try his hand in the world of bareknuckle boxing once again? Is a return to RAF the most likely option? Share your thoughts in the comments below.