Raoni Barcelos has spoken publicly for the first time since being knocked out cold during the main event of UFC Fight Night 289 against Raul Rosas Jr. in Las Vegas. The 39-year-old bantamweight appeared on camera from his hospital bed, confirming he is recovering well and undergoing tests. Barcelos expressed gratitude for the support he has received and vowed to return to competition stronger.
Raoni Barcelos broke his silence following a frightening knockout defeat at UFC Fight Night 289 in Las Vegas, appearing on camera from his hospital bed to address fans and well-wishers for the first time since the finish.
Barcelos, 39, was stopped by Raul Rosas Jr. in the main event, leaving the Brazilian motionless on the canvas before medical staff intervened. Speaking from his hospital room, the bantamweight confirmed he is recovering well and undergoing tests. He expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he has received and vowed to return to fighting stronger.
The veteran carries a 22-6 record into this setback and holds the number 13 ranking in the bantamweight division. The Brazilian trains out of the Laerte Barcelos Team and fights out of an orthodox stance, standing five-foot-seven with a 67-inch reach. He has long been one of the more active strikers at 135 pounds, landing 4.65 significant strikes per minute at 51 percent accuracy, while also posing a consistent grappling threat with 2.51 takedowns per 15 minutes.
On the other side, Rosas Jr. is just 21 years old and now holds a 13-1 record, sitting at number 12 in the division. The American prospect, known as "El Nino Problema," trains at 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Las Vegas and is among the most active wrestlers in the division, averaging 6.1 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- The finish elevated Rosas Jr. into serious bantamweight contention, with only one ranking spot separating him and Barcelos heading into the bout.
- Barcelos, a fighter with 22 wins and years of top-level experience, will face questions about his next steps at 39 years old after being knocked unconscious.
- His public hospital statement signals a desire to continue competing, keeping his name in the divisional conversation once medical clearance is obtained.
