18 Years Older, Raoni Barcelos Seeks to Prove His Worth and Stop the Rise of the Problem Child at UFC Vegas 121

Raul Rosas Jr. and Raoni Barcelos promote a fight at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

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At 39 years old, Raoni Barcelos is experiencing a magical moment in his career and has been rewarded by the UFC. This Saturday (26), the Brazilian will have his first main fight in the biggest MMA organization in the world. Headlining UFC Vegas 121, the veteran faces the sensation Raul Rosas Jr , 18 years younger, who is also in good form and is headlining an event for the first time. In fact, the generational duel is very important for the bantamweight division (up to 61,2 kg).

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For the fight, Raoni arrives riding a five-fight winning streak. Thanks to this excellent winning streak, the Brazilian has solidified his place among the elite of the competitive division, more precisely in eighth place in the rankings. Rosas Jr. also has five consecutive wins, but remains out of contention. Precisely for this reason, the veteran needs to be extra careful against the promising 'El Niño Problema', who is more motivated than ever. At UFC Vegas 121, the American will fight the biggest fight of his career and has the chance to break into the top 10.

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The fight itself tends to be fast-paced. Raoni has an advantage as a well-rounded, experienced, and tested fighter. Rosas Jr., on the other hand, has grappling as his main strength. Due to the significant age difference between the fighters, the Brazilian must be extra careful at the start of the fight, as the MMA prospect usually displays a frenetic pace, pressures his opponents, and seeks submissions or technical knockouts on the ground. Therefore, the veteran needs to be in control of the fight to curb the American's momentum and frustrate him.

According to the bookmakers, Rosas Jr. is the favorite to win. However, one cannot doubt Raoni, who, despite his advanced age for competition, is not finished, nor showing any signs of slowing down. On the contrary, the Brazilian even likes to play as the underdog. In fact, in 2025, the Rio native surprised the sensation Payton Talbott , dominating and ending his undefeated streak by winning by unanimous decision.

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