Can Raul Rosas Jr break Jon Jones record? Exploring UFC’s youngest star’s shot at greatness

Raul Rosas Jr. is an exceptional talent in the UFC, showcasing incredible skills at just 19 years old. He joined the UFC almost two years ago, proving his potential with dominant performances. Since then, he has competed in five UFC bouts, gaining experience and recognition. His rapid rise puts him on track to challenge Jon Jones’ youngest champion record.

Rosas Jr has often shared his intentions to become the youngest ever UFC champion by getting the bantamweight title. In a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, the duo discussed the time frame to achieve this mega task. According to Helwani, the fighter has 3 years and 104 days to beat this record. In response, Rosas Jr shared his immediate plans. 

Jones became the youngest UFC champion at just 23 years old, showcasing his extraordinary talent and dominance in MMA. He won the title by defeating Mauricio Rua at UFC 128 in 2011, delivering a masterful performance. At that time, Rua was an MMA legend, having a mythical level of aura, but Jones won the bout via TKO. 

Raúl Rosas Jr. still has 3 years and 106 days to break Jon Jones' record for the youngest UFC champion in history 👀

"Hopefully, if this year, I at least get ranked top 15, that'll put me in a good position to break the record." pic.twitter.com/zmCZkYCt7x

— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) March 25, 2025

Jones’s victory marked the beginning of his legendary reign, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s greatest fighters. Since then, he has been part of 17 title fights, defeating all of them. While that legacy is hard to beat, Rosas Jr does have the opportunity to hold the UFC gold as the youngest fighter. 

Rosas Jr made it into UFC by performing well in Dana White‘s Contender Series, and his performance impressed the CEO. White likes to scout fighters from DWCS and was extremely hyped about Rosas Jr, calling him a special kid. The young fighter is now focused on the upcoming challenge at UFC on ESPN 64 in Mexico City. 

Raul Rosas Jr wants a finish this weekend 

Raul Rosas Jr is well known for his aggressive grappling, freestyle wrestling, and submission-focused fighting style. His professional record stands at 10 wins and 1 loss, with most victories coming by submission or knockout. He has had only one knockout win in the UFC and is currently riding a three-fight win streak.

Despite his devastating loss against Christian Rodriguez at UFC 287, he managed to bounce back and maintain his momentum. This Saturday, ‘El Nino Problema’ will take on Vince Morales in the main card. Going into the bout, Rosas Jr is confident and is looking for a finish as soon as possible. 

Morales is 34 years old and is definitely a veteran in the sport, having made his debut back in 2015. His early UFC career was dramatic, with inconsistent performance. This saw him getting dropped in 2022. Since then, the fighter has fought in different promotions and recently managed to make his way back. However, he has lost two fights in a row, making Rosas Jr a fan favorite to win.

Can Raul Rosas Jr break Jon Jones’s record?

Raul Rosas Jr aims to beat as many opponents soon and climb the bantamweight rankings, and win the belt. However, it is safe to say that the 135 lbs is currently one of the most stacked divisions, filled with extremely skilled fighters. With his lack of experience, beating the likes of Petr Yan, Sean O’Malley, or Merab Dvalishvili won’t be an easy task.

His skill set is promising but still developing, requiring improvements in striking, wrestling, and overall fight IQ. Timing, matchmaking, and personal growth will determine whether he achieves greatness. But there is a good possibility that he falls short of becoming the youngest champion in UFC history.

Related: Raul Rosas Jr. parents: Who are Raul Rosas Sr. and Oyuki Rios?

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