Raoni Barcelos provides first health update after being stretchered out at UFC Vegas 121

Raoni Barcelos went to war with Raul Rosas Jr. in the headliner of UFC Vegas 121. In the fifth round, Rosas landed a knee to the body, pressed Barcelos against the cage, and secured a takedown. He then was about to follow up with ground-and-pound strikes, but the Brazilian was out cold. It remains unclear what left the 39-year-old unconscious.

It was a scary scene at the Meta Apex on Saturday night. Barcelos remained on the ground unresponsive and was stretchered out of the octagon and taken directly to the hospital. This left fans worried and praying for the Brazilian.

Raoni Barcelos issues first statement after scary UFC Vegas 121 knockout

Barcelos' coach and the UFC later provided an update that the 39-year-old is stable, responsive, and being monitored by doctors.

That said, the Brazilian warrior has now issued his first statement. UFC Brasil shared a post about Barcelos on its Instagram account, and he responded in the comments section.

He provided an update on his health, saying he is doing fine. He also thanked fans for their support and prayers while reflecting positively on his performance against Rosas.

“Hey guys, I want to let you all know that I'm doing great. And as soon as I can, I will send you all a video! Thank you so much for everyone's love and prayers! I promised a great fight, and I fulfilled what I promised. Thank you, God, and everyone who fought together with me inside and outside of that cage,” Barcelos wrote 

Check out Raoni Barcelos’ comment below: 

Barcelos' message provides some relief after the frightening scenes at UFC Vegas 121. He remains under medical observation. For now, the most important thing is the Brazilian's health and recovery.

Interestingly, before the knockout, Barcelos was ahead of Rosas on all three judges' scorecards. The knockout was a reminder of why MMA is unlike other sports and how quickly it can get scary.

Raul Rosas Jr. win over Raoni Barcelos keeps his dream of becoming the youngest champion alive

The grueling back-and-forth fight earned a Fight of the Night bonus. With the victory, Rosas continues his rise in the bantamweight division and extends his win streak to six.

Rosas, who is just 21 years old, is on the right path toward his dream of becoming the youngest UFC champion. That record belongs to Jon Jones, who became champion at 23 years and 243 days. With the victory over Barcelos, the American-Mexican fighter is one step closer to a title shot.