During the UFC 317 weigh-ins on Friday, a fan unexpectedly received a punch from one of the bantamweight division`s promising young talents.
International Fight Week brought many top UFC fighters to Las Vegas for various fan events and the Hall of Fame ceremony.
The city saw several interactions among UFC stars, including Alexander Volkanovski`s staredown with Jean Silva, but another notable moment involved Raul Rosas Jr. inadvertently making contact with an attendee.
Raul Rosas Jr. and Fan Share a Laugh After Accidental Punch
UFC bantamweight prospect Raul Rosas Jr., 20, was present during the UFC 317 fight week activities in Las Vegas and was seemingly well-received by attendees.
Known as `El Niño Problema`, Rosas Jr. has built momentum with four consecutive wins since his only career loss, including a victory over Vince Morales in March, continuing his positive trajectory into 2025.
However, a recent incident captured on social media showed that Morales wasn`t the only person struck by Rosas Jr. this year.
During the UFC 317 weigh-ins, the rising contender was surrounded by fans and media, and he began demonstrating his rapid hand speed.
While showcasing his speed, Rosas Jr. threw a short left hook that accidentally hit a fan standing nearby, causing the fan`s glasses to fall off.
Social media users reacted with various humorous comments about both Rosas Jr.`s action and the subsequent interaction with the fan, who appeared to take the accidental blow in good spirits, sharing a laugh with the fighter.
Reactions online included jokes about potential lawsuits and comments on the perceived power of the punch, highlighting the lighthearted nature of the mishap.
Rosas Jr. Aims for Title Shot in Three Fights
Looking towards a potential return at Noche UFC, Rosas Jr. has indicated he expects a significant upcoming fight against a top-15 ranked opponent.
In a recent interview, he expressed his belief that he is approximately three victories away from challenging for the bantamweight championship.
“I don’t think I’m too far away, especially if this fight that I’ve told you about goes through and I’m able to go out there and beat the guy. That’s like two more fights inside the top 15 and I feel like that would earn me a title shot… I’m looking at it as four fights just in case but for sure, I would love three.”
If his plans materialize, Rosas Jr. could potentially challenge Jon Jones` record as the youngest champion in UFC history.
Gareth Pendleton