Rosas Jr. Wins First Headliner via Controversial KO as Barcelos Recovers
Raul Rosas Jr. won his first UFC headliner by knocking out Raoni Barcelos in the fifth round at UFC Fight Night 289 on September 26, 2026, in Las Vegas. The 21-year-old secured a sixth consecutive victory, becoming the youngest fighter to headline a UFC card, while Barcelos was stretchered out for medical evaluation but later confirmed stable. The bout, which Rosas Jr. was losing on scorecards, ended abruptly after a takedown sequence left Barcelos unconscious, sparking debate over the nature of the finish. Rosas Jr. expressed gratitude and sent prayers to his opponent, acknowledging the intense nature of the contest.