Raul Rosas Jr., a 19-year-old UFC prospect, is eager to face a top 15 opponent to advance his career towards title contention but is currently focused on recovering from injuries and potentially participating in a grappling match before deciding on his next fight.
Raul Rosas Jr. feels he’s primed for ranked competition, but he’s also putting his faith in the UFC to guide him wisely. After a victory over Aoriqileng at UFC 306, the 19-year-old prospect expressed his desire for a top 15 opponent. Not a demand, just a wish to climb the ladder and eventually vie for the title.
“If I’d finished the fight, I could argue for a top 15 opponent,” Rosas told MMA Fighting. “I want that challenge, but if it’s not next, then someone who’ll lead me there.” He craves fights that inch him closer to the belt. No interest in battles that leave him stagnant.
Rosas dreams of becoming a UFC champion but knows there’s time on his side. Beating a ranked fighter would speed things up, yet he sees value in defeating seasoned veterans without rankings. Facing Aoriqileng with nearly 40 fights under his belt gave Rosas crucial experience. Now, he’s eager for the next step up in the bantamweight division hierarchy.
“That’s the ultimate goal,” he said about being champ. “With each fight, I’m growing.” This last bout was a learning curve—a step up he embraced. Right now, Rosas is dealing with some injuries from his recent fight. “I’m not 100% healthy,” he admitted. His knee’s on the mend, but other injuries linger.
He hopes to fight again before year’s end but won’t rush it until fully healed. “I want to fight in December,” he mused, “but only if I’m ready.” If December isn’t feasible, he’s eyeing April 2025 for his return—craving some holiday downtime like any teenager.
“I’ll be honest,” Rosas confided, “I want to enjoy Christmas this year.” Last year was all training and no holiday fun due to an early-year fight that never happened. He doesn’t want a repeat of that disappointment.
In a couple of weeks, he’ll know if 2024 holds another fight for him. Meanwhile, he’s already training for a potential grappling match in October. “It’s a big name,” Rosas hinted with excitement. But nothing’s confirmed yet. We’ll see if it happens on Oct. 26!