Yoel Romero opted to skip the in-person attendance at the Bellator 297 press conference due to his fear of heights. The conference was set to take place 99 stories above ground in Chicago’s Willis Tower building.
Renowned for his intimidating presence in the MMA world, Romero’s fear of heights became apparent to Chael Sonnen and Bellator officials. Consequently, Romero’s absence led to a creative solution where he appeared on a TV screen during the press conference. Sonnen, the host of the presser, clarified the reason behind the Cuban fighter’s nonattendance.
Romero’s translator conveyed his apologies to everyone, explaining that entering the building would be a battle he knew he couldn’t win. Sonnen light-heartedly remarked, “Everybody’s got a kryptonite—now we know what Yoel’s is.”
Romero himself added, “Not even with my kids would I be able to go up on a Ferris Wheel,” emphasizing the extent of his fear. This incident marked an unprecedented reason for a fighter’s absence at a press conference, although it was not the first time Romero had encountered such a situation. Prior to his UFC 225 title fight with Robert Whittaker, he contemplated confronting UFC President Dana White for asking him to take a picture on the “Sky Deck” of Willis Tower. Ultimately, his failure to make weight changed the bout to a non-title fight.
Despite Romero’s absence, Bellator and the fighter made the most of the situation. PR chief Danny Brener brought a TV to the forefront, allowing Romero to “face off” with a curious Vadim Nemkov and Bellator chief Scott Coker before concluding the gathering. The opportunity for photos on the Sky Deck did not come to fruition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fear of heights
Why did Yoel Romero skip the Bellator 297 press conference in person?
Yoel Romero skipped the Bellator 297 press conference in person due to his fear of heights. The conference was held 99 stories above ground in Chicago’s Willis Tower building, which triggered his phobia.
How did Bellator handle Romero’s absence?
Bellator officials got creative by arranging for Romero to appear on a TV screen during the press conference. They wheeled the TV in front of the dais, allowing him to participate remotely.
Has Romero’s fear of heights been an issue before?
Yes, Romero’s fear of heights had been a known phenomenon. He previously expressed reluctance to take a picture on the “Sky Deck” of Willis Tower before a UFC fight and had contemplated confronting UFC President Dana White about it.
Did Romero’s absence affect the press conference significantly?
Despite Romero’s absence, Bellator and the fighter made the most of the situation. The press conference proceeded with the TV appearance, allowing interactions between Romero, Vadim Nemkov, and Bellator chief Scott Coker.
More about fear of heights
- Bellator 297 Press Conference: [Link to news article](insert URL here)
- Yoel Romero’s Fear of Heights: [Link to interview with Chael Sonnen](insert URL here)
- Willis Tower: [Link to official website](insert URL here)
- Vadim Nemkov’s Bellator Profile: [Link to Bellator’s official page](insert URL here)
- Dana White and Yoel Romero Incident: [Link to news article](insert URL here)
