With Raphael Assuncao out, Raoni Barcelos expected to meet newcomer Marcelo Rojo at UFC Vegas 20

Raoni Barcelos will compete on the UFC’s final event of the month after all.

Multiple people with knowledge of the promotion’s plans confirmed to MMA Fighting that Barcelos is now expected to meet promotional newcomer Marcelo Rojo at UFC Vegas 20. Rojo replaces Raphael Assuncao who was forced to withdraw from the bout. Per sources, the fight between Barcelos and Rojo has been agreed upon at a catchweight of 140 pounds.

The event takes place Feb. 27 at the UFC APEX. Entre Rounds on Instagram was first to report the booking.

Barcelos enters the fight on an impressive nine-fight winning streak, including a 5-0 start to his UFC run. The 33-year-old octagon resume includes stoppage wins over Kurt Holobaugh, Chris Gutierrez and Carlos Huachin. In his most recent appearance, Barcelos picked up a unanimous decision win over Khalid Taha at UFC Vegas 13 in November.

Rojo enters his promotional debut a winner of three of his last four, and for his first fight since a September 2019 knockout win at Combate Americas 45. “El Pitbull” competed for Combate Americas beginning in March 2017 and compiled a record of 6-2 with all first-round stoppages.

UFC Vegas 20 will be headlined by a heavyweight matchup between Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Ciryl Gane.