Raoni Barcelos releases first video statement from hospital after disturbing knockout

Raoni Barcelos has released his first statement on video since a frightening scene in the main event of UFC Fight Night 289.

Barcelos (22-6 MMA, 11-5 UFC) reached Round 5 of an intense headlining bout against Raul Rosas Jr. at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas this past Saturday. Barcelos was ahead on the scorecards entering the final round, but during a takedown sequence, the Brazilian was knocked out cold as he made impact with the canvas, leaving many to question what exactly caused him to go unconscious.

The 39-year-old bantamweight was stretchered out of the octagon and brought to a nearby hospital. Soon after the fight, his team relayed that he was awake and speaking. The UFC released an official statement, indicating that a CT scan was conducted along with a comprehensive assessment.

For the first time since the scary scene, Barcelos appeared on camera from his hospital bed, reassuring everyone that he is on the road to recovery and intends to continue fighting in the future.

Below is Barcelos' message from Instagram, which was spoken in Portuguese and translated by Google:

"Hey everyone, hope you're doing well. I just wanted to send a message to let you know I'm OK. Yeah, I'm doing really well. I'm getting all the tests done here at the hospital.I just have to do what the hospital requires, and that’s it, guys. I’m grateful for all the prayers and messages of support. Please keep them coming.

"Let's move on to the next one. Man, I gave it my all out there. Like I said before, the way I went out wasn't how I wanted it to happen; I really wanted to be the champion. I wanted to walk away with the win, but the good Lord knows best. So, on to the next one.I'm here; I'm going to come back – come back stronger. I wanted to send a kiss and a big hug to all of you, and thank you so much for everything. Thanks. Let's do this."