Downey vs. Romero - Late Replacement Pat Downey Meets ‘Always Game’ Yoel Romero.

Yoel Romero vs Bo Nickal for the RAF Light Heavyweight title made sense both on paper and in the hearts of Penn State wrestling fans. What would serve as the de facto rubber match between Cael Sanderson and Romero would come with the RAF title on the line. With Nickal out last minute, there was one obvious call to make.

Pat Downey has spent his entire career demanding greatness without sacrificing who he is or giving an inch. After an unsuccessful RAF debut that saw Downey fall to Jake Varner 5-1, “The Lizard King” would bounce back with a one-minute tech fall victory over Joaquin Buckley and call for his shot at Nickal’s belt only to find out the belt would be put on the line against Romero in the same event. Downey didn’t hesitate.

Equally game, Romero, who has never backed down from a challenge and never disappointed the fans accepted the new matchup just as quickly and we’re set for just as many, if not more, fireworks than originally planned.

Both men represent different paths clashing on the same mat with potential for the Match of the Night spotlight.

Bite Down On the Mouthpiece

Yoel Romero: One of the few men to ever accomplish an Olympic silver medal, Romero could have walked away from combat sports and still left a lasting legacy. Instead, “Soldier of God” would go on to have one of the most violent, impressive careers in the history of MMA. Romero will have to tap into that aggression and violence to gas Downey out.

Pat Downey: Never one to back down or give an inch, Downey’s personality and style could actually make for an even more physical night out for Romero. Known for his physicality, attitude and relentless forward pressure, Downey excels in dragging opponents into uncomfortable positions both mentally and physically and forcing exchanges where strength and will take over.

Both men will be equally ready to match the other’s mental and physical strengths.

What to Watch For
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Downey Creating Chaos: Downey’s best path lies in making this match uncomfortable. Heavy hands, constant pressure and forcing Romero to wrestle extended sequences could shift momentum and test Romero’s conditioning.

Romero’s Timing: If Romero can dictate the pace and pick his moments, his ability to explode through clean entries could neutralize Downey’s pressure and end exchanges before they ever develop.

Downey’s Hunger: Downey’s seat at the top of the division has been a long time coming. He’s willing to do anything outside of sell himself short. The chip on his shoulder and eagerness for a title shot means his matchup with Romero could be his most aggressive performance yet.

Can Romero yet again ignore father time and reintroduce himself to the freestyle wrestling landscape or will Downey officially punch his ticket to a title matchup? Find out Saturday, December 20 ONLY on Fox Nation!

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