During the weigh-ins on Friday, a fan reportedly experienced an unexpected moment when they took an accidental punch from one of the bantamweight division`s prominent rising talents.
The incident occurred amidst the activities leading up to UFC 317. The event schedule included various fights, with mention made of a matchup between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title.
While fighters were not yet inside the Octagon for their bouts, this didn`t prevent one participant from prematurely showcasing their hand speed outside of official competition.
International Fight Week traditionally brings many of the UFC`s top athletes to Las Vegas for fan engagements and events like the UFC Hall of Fame ceremony.
The convergence of numerous UFC stars in the city resulted in various interactions, extending beyond formal face-offs such as the one between Alexander Volkanovski and Jean Silva.
Accidental Strike Leads to Shared Laughter
UFC bantamweight prospect Raul Rosas Jr. was in attendance for UFC 317 fight week and appeared to be well-received by the fans present. The 20-year-old fighter garnered significant attention from the crowd.
Known as `El Niño Problema`, Rosas Jr. has been on a strong run since suffering his first career loss, securing four consecutive victories, including a notable win over Vince Morales in March. This success has built considerable momentum heading into 2025, positioning him for a potentially major fight next.
However, Vince Morales wasn`t the only individual to be struck by Rosas Jr.`s hands this year, according to a video that circulated on social media platforms.
The rapidly ascending fighter was surrounded by fans and cameras during the UFC 317 weigh-ins. In this crowded setting, he began demonstrating his quick hand movements.
While showing off, Rosas Jr. threw a short left hook that inadvertently connected with a fan standing nearby, causing the fan`s glasses to be knocked off.
Fans observing the video on social media reacted in various ways, often making light of the unexpected incident and the reactions of both Rosas Jr. and the fan.
Some reactions included:
‘Naw he just laughed at the fan.’
‘Bro almost caught a lawsuit in 4k.’
‘Good thing he’s not known for his power.’
‘I would sue and just settle that he’s never to say “chee wee wee” publicly again.’
‘Clear lawsuit.’
‘No effect! lol.’
Rosas Jr. Maps Out Path to Title Contention
With a potential appearance at Noche UFC on the horizon, Raul Rosas Jr. has hinted that he is preparing for a significant upcoming bout, likely against a top 15 ranked opponent.
During a recent discussion on The Ariel Helwani Show, Rosas Jr. expressed his belief that he is approximately three wins away from earning an opportunity to challenge 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 Rosas Jr.`s career trajectory unfolds according to his aspirations, he could potentially challenge Jon Jones` standing record as the youngest champion in UFC history.
