Manager: Weidman vs. Romero 2 was close for UFC 250

Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

A rematch between Chris Weidman and Yoel Romero was almost set in stone for UFC 250.

Yoel Romero’s manager says the UFC offered the Cuban middleweight a rematch with Chris Weidman for UFC 250.

Romero’s manager revealed the planned fight for UFC 250 on an Instagram live chat. The event was supposed to take place on May 9th at the Ginasio do Ibirapuera in São Paulo, Brazil, but has been postponed until further notice due to the outbreak of the coronavirus.

“They actually offered us Weidman for this next fight, but Yoel has an orbital eye injury,” Kawa said. “I was waiting to see if I could get him cleared to fight May 9, and they cancelled the event.” (Transcription via MMA Fighting)

Romero (13-5) fought Weidman at UFC 205 in November 2016, when he knocked out the former champion with a flying knee and punches. The “Soldier of God” has gone 2-4 since that win, most recently losing a lackluster decision to Israel Adesanya in March. Kawa said Romero is prepared to move up to light heavyweight from 185-pounds for his next fight.

“He [Romero] might fight Weidman at 205, or anybody at 205 depending on how much time we have to get prepared,” Kawa said. “If not, he’s going to fight mostly at 185.”

Weidman (14-5) moved up to 205-pounds for his last fight, but was stopped in the first round by Dominick Reyes. “The All American” has lost five of his last six fights, with all of his defeats by knockout. He was slated to face Jack Hermansson at UFC Oklahoma City on May 2nd, but Hermansson couldn’t make it to the US due to travel restrictions, hence Romero was an option.