Rosas Jr. shows respect for Barcelos after UFC Vegas 121

The two bantamweights reunite as Barcelos continues medical tests

Raoni Barcelos and Raul Rosas Jr. met again after their main event at UFC Vegas 121.

The two bantamweights met recently and even posted a photo together. Raoni Barcelos is still in Las Vegas and continues to undergo medical examinations to determine the cause of his loss of consciousness during his defeat.

Raoni Barcelos was ahead on every scorecard heading into the fifth round but lost consciousness during a grappling exchange on the ground. Referee Herb Dean immediately stopped the fight and awarded Raul Rosas Jr. the victory by TKO. Raoni Barcelos was quickly carried out of the Octagon and taken to a hospital. Later that evening, the UFC released an update stating that he was reportedly stable again, which naturally reassured the fans. Raul Rosas Jr. also wished his opponent a speedy recovery right after the fight and has since posted a few kind words under a photo of the two of them together.

"Much respect to this warrior. 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"

he wrote.

With that, he once again highlights just what a fair duel it actually was. Moments like these are especially important in this sport, where people often forget what’s meant in a sporting context and what’s meant personally. Respect also plays a very big role in combat sports, and we shouldn’t forget that. What do you think?