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Raoni Barcelos Speaks About Potential UFC Retirement

UFC bantamweight champion Raoni Barcelos addressed the possibility of retirement following a dramatic fifth-round medical stoppage during his September 26 main-event bout against Raul Rosas Jr. at UFC Vegas 121.

The fight, a five-round war at Meta Apex in Las Vegas, earned both fighters the $100,000 Fight of the Night bonus—but also left Barcelos with an unexplained medical emergency that ended the contest. Though he remains hopeful about returning to competition, Barcelos acknowledged the incident has cast doubt over his future in the Octagon, calling it a ‘very difficult time’ as he navigates recovery.

Medical treatment was aggressive, and he now reports feeling medication-free with no lingering issues, though he stressed patience is key as he assesses whether his heart and body can withstand further fights.

Barcelos, who has relied on guidance from his father Davi Ramos, teammate Andre Felipe, and veteran Glover Teixeira, has been told to focus on the present rather than retirement. ‘I don’t want to stop,’ he stated, though he admitted the possibility remains real.

The fighter’s resilience is underscored by his gratitude toward fans and supporters who prayed for his recovery after the fight left him in serious condition—one that could have ended his career prematurely.

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