Who Can Stop Raul Rosas Jr.’s Rise?
Raul Rosas Jr won his first main event in a fantastic fight. Who should be next for the young Mexican star?
Raul Rosas Jr was given a test in his first main event, and he passed that test with flying colours. After being matched with the experienced Raoni Barcelos, the Brazilian gave Rosas everything he had, asked him plenty of questions and tested the grit and determination of the 21-year-old. In a strange, scary finish, Rosas Jr got his hand raised. The UFC has released a statement on the condition of Barcelos.
Raul Rosas Jr wants to break Jon Jones' record of being the youngest ever UFC champion, and we take a look at who he could face next in his pursuit of that record.
Who Can Stop Raul Rosas Jr.’s Rise?
Aiemann Zahabi
Facing Rosas Jr off against Aiemann Zahabi is the most logical fight to make next time out. Zahabi is coming off a big loss to Sean O'Malley at The White House and, as a result, will have to face someone further down the rankings next time out.
He's a known name as a result of him featuring on UFC Freedom 250 and ultimately won't provide too much of a threat to the Mexican. At 38, Zahabi can't be too picky with who he faces next, and if the UFC come knocking, he'll likely sign on the dotted line.
Marcus McGhee
Marcus McGhee was thrust into the spotlight when he fought Petr Yan seemingly out of nowhere. Although he would lose that fight, he went the distance with the current champion and bounced back in his next fight.
McGhee is set to compete at UFC 332, which aligns his timeline with Rosas Jr's. He's ranked, well-rounded, and dangerous. This one all depends on the outcome of his UFC 332 fight; however, if he were to win, it could make for an exciting match-up.
Cory Sandhagen
This one is certainly a stretch, and it's doubtful that Cory Sandhagen would accept the fight even if he were offered it. With that being said, the American is 1-3 in his last four fights, with his only win coming via injury to his opponent. He's lost his last two fights, and although he's extremely well regarded, if he's ever to mix it with the elite of the division again, he needs to get back in the win column.
It's a huge step up in competition, but if Rosas Jr is to break Jones' record, he'll have to make that jump.
