Yoel Romero Fails Pre-Fight Screening, Won't Make Bellator Debut

Yoel Romero, 43, failed to clear pre-fight medical conditioning for eight-man Bellator MMA Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix against fellow newcomer Anthony "Rumble" Johnson, so guess what?

Yep, the highly anticipated fight is off.

Romero (13-5) is a former two-time UFC middleweight title challenger, and he was originally scheduled to fight at Bellator 258 on May 7. But his camp confirmed the news of the failed physical to CBS Sports.

The reason for Romero failing to clear his medical exam wasn't disclosed. That said, Johnson is still expected to fight ... somebody.

"The promotion said it will name a tournament alternate to face Johnson (22-6) in his quarterfinal bout as soon as possible, although it remains uncertain whether that fight will remain on the card that is just eight days away," CBS Sports reported.

Either way, Bellator 258 will still go on as scheduled, kicking off at 9 p.m. EST on Showtime on its scheduled day. The event is highlighted by headlined by bantamweight champion Juan Archuleta's fight against Sergio Pettis.

"Romero will become eligible to reapply for clearance to compete in the coming months, and we look forward to seeing him make his Bellator debut in the near future," Bellator said in a statement. "Bellator MMA will look to reschedule the highly anticipated Johnson versus Romero matchup at a future date."