Raul Rosas Jr. turns to old wrestling coach in Kyrgyzstan after first career loss

LAS VEGAS – Raul Rosas Jr. went back to his roots after enduring his first career loss.

Rosas (7-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC) was upset by Christian Rodriguez when he lost a unanimous decision in the main card opener of UFC 287 in April. Rosas had Rodriguez in trouble early when he almost submitted him with a rear-naked choke in Round 1, but then he was heavily outgrappled in Rounds 2 and 3.

After the loss, Rosas went back to his old wrestling coach, who he credits for helping him make strides in such a short amount of time.

“I just went back to my wrestling coach, he’s from Russia, but we met in Kyrgyzstan,” Rosas told MMA Junkie Radio on Radio Row at UFC X during International Fight Week in Las Vegas. “I didn’t know any wrestling. The only wrestling I knew I learned in like a month. I knew he was really good because all the wrestling I know, I learned in a month thanks to him. We went back and trained for another month and he helped us improve in a lot of positions that I could have done better for my last fight and just in general. I feel great about it.”

Rosas, who is the youngest UFC winner in history, had plenty of hype surrounding him that was momentarily halted by Rodriguez. But the goal remains the same for the 18-year-old.

“We’re still chasing the dream, so right now just working hard and ready for what’s next,” Rosas said. “For my next fight, I should be announcing it soon, and I should be getting a fight soon. I can’t wait to be able to go back in this year and put on a show for the people.”