Raoni Barcelos has said he is “doing well” and expects to return stronger after being hospitalised following his defeat to Raul Rosas Jr. in the main event of UFC Vegas 121.

Barcelos lost consciousness during a clinch in the fifth round of Saturday’s bantamweight contest at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, requiring immediate medical attention before being transported to a local hospital. The 39-year-old had been leading on the scorecards before the fight was stopped, with Rosas Jr. awarded the victory by technical knockout.

“I’m here to send you a message and let you know that I’m doing well. I’m doing really well and undergoing all the exams here at the hospital,” said Barcelos, via translation as noted by MMA Fighting. “This is just the hospital’s protocol, so I have to go through all of them.”

Barcelos also thanked supporters for their messages following the incident. “I want to thank everyone for all the prayers and all the kind messages. Please keep sending that positive energy,” he said. “I gave everything I had inside that cage. Like I said before, I was only leaving that cage if I was carried out, and that’s exactly how it happened.”

Barcelos said he intends to return to competition following his recovery, although no timetable has been given. “I’m here, doing well. I’ll be back, and I’ll come back stronger,” he said. “Thank you so much for everything. Thank you, and let’s keep moving forward!”

The defeat ended a five-fight winning streak for Barcelos. He had appeared on course for a decision victory before collapsing with around three minutes remaining in the final round, bringing the bout to an abrupt end and prompting his hospitalisation.