Raul Rosas Jr. takes UFC 287 loss in stride: 'Things happen for a reason'

Raul Rosas Jr. isn’t making excuses for his first career defeat.

On Saturday at UFC 287 in Miami, Rosas (7-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC) was upset by Christian Rodriguez when he lost a unanimous decision in the main card opener. Rosas had a strong opening round and nearly finished Rodriguez with a submission attempt, but then he was largely dominated in the grappling department in Rounds 2 and 3.

Shortly after the fight, Rosas posted a statement in an Instagram story in which he owned up to the loss, apologized for it and vowed to use it to improve.

“My bad bros,” Rosas wrote. “I didn’t have the energy to do what I know or even try. Things happen for a reason (and) God knows. My opponent was better tonight. Thank you guys.”

Rosas, 18, became the youngest fighter in the promotion’s history when he signed after a win on “Dana White’s Contender Series” last summer while he was still 17. In order to compete on the series, Rosas’ parents were required to fill out and sign a special waiver.

Rosas made his promotional debut at UFC 282 in December when he made quick work of Jay Perrin with a first-round submission.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 287.