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#2. Yoel Romero
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Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson vs. Yoel Romero remains one of the biggest Bellator fights that got away. There was plenty of excitement when the promotion announced that the former UFC title challengers had signed with the promotion.
The bout was originally scheduled to take place in the opening round of the light heavyweight Grand Prix. But Romero was forced to withdraw because he didn’t clear his pre-fight medical examinations. As a result, ‘Rumble’ fought Jose Augusto, who served as an alternate in the tournament. It was an action-packed bout that saw Augusto drop and nearly finish him in the first round. However, the 38-year-old recovered and knocked out Augusto in round two.
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It would make sense for Bellator to try booking the fight again. When they confirmed Romero didn’t clear his medicals, they announced that they planned to to reschedule the bout in the future.
‘The Soldier of God’ is currently scheduled to compete against Melvin Manhoef in September, which would work if Johnson returns in early 2023.
#1. Vadim Nemkov vs. Corey Anderson winner
Johnson could earn an immediate title shot upon returning because of what transpired in Bellator's light heavyweight Grand Prix. He was matched up with reigning light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov in the semi-finals, but was forced to withdraw.
Based on the bout not coming to fruition, ‘Rumble’ could make the argument to fight the winner of the Grand Prix. Nemkov and Corey Anderson are expected to compete in a rematch after the Grand Prix final ended in a no-contest. An accidental clash of heads resulted in a cut opening up above the champion’s left eye that forced the stoppage.
‘Rumble’s knockout power would make him a difficult matchup for both fighters should he receive a title shot. Depending on what transpires in the rematch, the Grand Prix winner defending the title against Johnson could be a lucrative fight. The title fight could also serve as a headliner for a big event like they did at Bellator 277.
