Stephen Buchanan turned in a decisive performance at RAF 5, closing out Yoel Romero with a 10 to 0 technical fall and stopping any momentum from Romero’s recent return to wrestling.
Buchanan came into the event focused on long range goals that include a push toward the 2028 Olympic Games. Although his matchup shifted late, his preparation remained intact. He was originally booked to face Pat Downey, but Romero stepped in after Downey missed weight for a separate contest.
Once the match began, Buchanan immediately established control. He secured an early takedown and followed with another clean score, building a wide gap before the opening period ended. Romero spent much of that time defending position as Buchanan dictated movement.
Finish and Future Plans
Early in the second period, Buchanan added another two point score to reach the 10 mark, ending the contest under technical fall rules. Afterward, he addressed the audience and reflected on his recent transition into freestyle competition.
“I’ve been training for like six months,” Buchanan said about his move from folkstyle to freestyle wrestling. “Loving this stage, loving you guys.
“I mean competing nationally at 97 kilos but I’d love to share the mats with Wyatt Hendrickson or Gable Steveson. Let’s get Jon Jones. Jon Jones, I’d love to share the mats with you.”
Romero, who earned a similar result at RAF 4 in December, credited Buchanan’s performance following the match.
“No excuses,” Romero said. “The young man is really strong.”
Throughout the bout, Romero relied on hand fighting and defense but struggled to create scoring chances. Buchanan consistently converted brief openings into points, keeping the match one sided from start to finish.
The win marked a successful RAF debut for Buchanan. As he continues building experience on larger stages, the performance reinforced his standing as a serious contender with international aspirations.
