Raoni Barcelos has been admitted to a hospital for overnight monitoring after passing out during the fifth round of his UFC Vegas 121 contest against Raul Rosas Jr. The 39-year-old fighter collapsed following a takedown by 1:38 into the final frame and was unable to continue.
Medical personnel attended to Barcelos inside the octagon at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, after which he was transported on a stretcher. Rosas Jr. immediately motioned for the referee to stop the fight, showing concern for his opponent’s condition.
In an official statement, the UFC confirmed that Barcelos was taken to a Level 1 trauma center for evaluation. Hospital staff performed a CT scan and a comprehensive assessment. The organization reported that Barcelos is currently stable, alert, responsive, and has full movement of his limbs. He will remain under medical supervision.
Barcelos, who has been with the UFC since 2018, entered the event on a five-fight winning streak and was making his first career main event appearance. He appeared to be ahead on all scorecards with one round remaining when the incident occurred. Rosas Jr., aged 21, secured the victory despite what appeared to be a routine takedown.
The bout was highly competitive, with both fighters exchanging more than 300 strikes before the finish, earning them the Fight of the Night bonus. The win marks the sixth consecutive victory for Rosas Jr.
Following the event, Rosas Jr. declined to celebrate. He asked fans to pray for Barcelos, describing him as a warrior.
Thirty-nine and still taking that kind of punishment? Respect. Rosas Jr. showing class by not celebrating says a lot too.
Relieved to hear Raoni is stable. That was a brutal finish for such a veteran. Hope he recovers fully soon.