UFC forced to release statement after fighter suddenly collapses and is stretchered out in frightening moment
The UFC have provided a health update on Raoni Barcelos after he appeared to go completely limp and pass out in the middle of his latest fight.
In the main event of the UFC's latest event at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, popular rising bantamweight star Raul Rosas Jr faced Barcelos in an exciting bout that ended in the worst way possible.
During a grappiling exchange up against the cage with just minutes left in the fight, Barcelos suddenly appeared to go completely limp and fall to the ground in a concerning moment that forced the UFC to speak out.
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UFC release statement after Raoni Barcelos collapses during Raul Rosas Jr fight
Going into the final round, Barcelos was ahead on the scorecards of all three judges, meaning he just had to make it through the final round to secure an upset victory over his opponent.
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It therefore was particularly frightening when he suddenly collapsed as he grappled with Rosas Jr in the final round, leading to the young bantamweight being declared the winner via TKO.
Initially Rosas and the UFC commentary team were celebrating what, at first glance, appeared to be an impressive final round finish, but celebrations quickly turned to concern once it became clear that something was seriously wrong with Barcelos.
Minutes after the fight ending, Barcelos was still on the ground unconscious and clearly in distress as Rosas approached his opponent to kneel beside him clearly worried about what was wrong.
Meanwhile the UFC broadcast decided to cut to an advertisement break before keeping the cameras away from Barcelos as a medical team arrived in the octagon to treat him and take him out on a stretcher.
Thankfully, shortly after the fight the UFC released a statement confirming that after 'comprehensive' checks, Barcelos was stable and responsive in hospital, where he will remain for further checks.
âFollowing his fight tonight, Raoni Barcelos was immediately transported to a Level 1 trauma center for evaluation," the UFC confirmed.
"The hospital medical team conducted a CT scan and comprehensive assessment, and he is currently being monitored.
"Barcelos is stable, alert and responsive, with full movement. He will remain under medical supervision. We will provide updates on his condition as they become available.â
A further update from MMA journalist Ariel Helwani confirmed that Barcelos was conscious, able to speak and able to move his fingers and toes.
Raoni Barcelos coach speaks out after terrifying UFC moment
Post-fight Barcelos coach, Davi Ramos, also provided an update on his fighter's condition, asking fans to remain calm and reassuring them that the Brazilian fighter was now ok.
"Hey guys, Raoni is fine, everything is alright, everyone can stay calm," Ramos said in a video posted on social media.
"He just went to do the tomography now, but everything is fine, we are here waiting for him, everyone can stay calm, thanks?"
The loss to Raul Rosas Jr. is only the sixth of Barcelos' 14-year career, with his record now 22 wins with six losses in total.
Ben McCrum