Rosas Jr. meets Barcelos in Las Vegas as rival undergoes tests after UFC Vegas 121 collapse

Raul Rosas Jr. and Raoni Barcelos crossed paths in Las Vegas last week, sharing a photo together as the Brazilian veteran continues to undergo medical tests to determine what caused him to lose consciousness during their UFC Vegas 121 main event last month.

Barcelose was ahead on all three judges’ scorecards entering the fifth round when he suddenly lost consciousness during a wrestling exchange. Referee Herb Dean immediately halted the contest, and Rosas Jr. was awarded a technical knockout victory — ending Barcelos’ five-fight winning streak in the process.

The 39-year-old was removed from the Octagon on a stretcher and transported to hospital for evaluation. The UFC confirmed shortly afterwards that he was stable, alert and responsive, and Barcelos himself later reassured fans that he was doing well. He remains in Las Vegas while doctors work to establish the cause of the episode.

Rosas Jr. had already called for a swift recovery in his post-fight interview, and the sentiment deepened when “El Nino Problema” posted the reunion photo on Instagram alongside a lengthy tribute to his opponent.

“Much respect to this warrior,” Rosas Jr. wrote. “We went to war and left everything in that octagon, giving it our all until the very end. That’s what this sport is all about — two warriors willing to put everything on the line for what they love. Having fought together, I got to see firsthand the heart, toughness, and determination he has. It takes a different kind of person to step into that cage, and he showed exactly what kind of warrior he is. More than anything, I’m glad he’s doing OK. At the end of the day, we’re competitors inside the cage, but outside of it, it’s all love and respect. Nothing but respect for you, brother. Wishing you a full recovery and nothing but success in everything that comes next. Real warriors forever.”

Barcelose’s medical situation remains unresolved, with no timeline yet given for when he might return to competition. The incident has prompted wider discussion about fighter welfare protocols inside the UFC’s Performance Institute, which is based in Las Vegas.