An incident from 2022 involving former BKFC bantamweight champion Alberto Blas and UFC veteran Yoel Romero has recently come to light after a jury acquitted Blas . The situation centers around a confrontation at American Top Team in Miami-Dade County, Florida, and adds context to Blas’s exit from BKFC and new contract with BKB.
According to sources who spoke with Ragdoll MMA, the incident began as a verbal dispute inside the gym. It escalated outside in the parking lot, where Blas reportedly attempted to hit Romero with his car on two occasions. After that, witnesses say Blas got out, retrieved a sword from his trunk and struck Romero twice — once in the arm and once in the hand.
Romero required hospital care for injuries, including tendon damage to his arm. Despite the setback, the Cuban-born MMA star competed twice later that year and won both matches by stoppage.
Law enforcement arrested Blas on charges of attempted felony second-degree harm and misdemeanor battery. Romero appeared in court for each hearing but did not testify.
A jury eventually acquitted Blas in December 2024. The case received little public attention at the time. Romero reportedly chose not to speak publicly about the matter.
BKFC announced Blas’s release the following month, citing repeated conduct that did not align with the promotion’s expectations.
“BKFC values discipline, accountability and respect for the sport both inside and outside the ring,”
said BKFC president David Feldman.
“While the athlete’s performance inside the squared circle has been exceptional, repeated incidents and conduct inconsistent with the values and image of the organization have made it necessary to part ways.”
Feldman added:
“We have a responsibility to uphold the integrity of our promotion and the sport as a whole. There were multiple infractions that went into this decision. We wish him well in his future endeavors.”
The bantamweight title is now vacant. BKFC is expected to announce updates regarding the division soon. In the meantime, Blas has signed with BKB and is set to continue competing.
This case shows how legal issues and professional careers can intersect in combat sports. Even with a full acquittal, consequences can follow based on promotional discretion and public image.
Romero’s choice to compete despite physical setbacks highlights his durability. The former Olympic silver medalist and longtime UFC contender returned to competition without public comment on the case.
