UFC’s Maycee Barber responds after knockout left her unconscious in Octagon

The UFC fighter who went viral over the weekend for being on the receiving end of a gruesome knockout, has addressed the incident.

American MMA fighter Maycee Barber faced off against opponent Alexa Grasso, from Mexico, in the Women Flyweight co-main event at UFC Fight Night 271 in Seattle.

The former would lose after a knockout midway through the first round, which many viewers described as one of the most brutal knockouts seen in the history of the sport as a video of the moment went viral.

Many voiced their worries for her health after images of Barber in the octagon were published online.

Now, she has taken to social media to address the result for the first time, with it being her first loss since February 2021 which was also against Grasso.

Taking to her Instagram page, she posted a video which began with her showing off her busted lip after the fight.

In the fight clip, Grasso can be seen showing zero mercy after knocking Barber out with a brutal punch, before attempting to choke her out - the referee was forced to intervene and wave it off.

Barber told followers that she was thankful to the UFC and Grasso for the opportunity to face off once again, despite her attempt at revenge ultimately being unsuccessful.

Praising Grasso as a 'phenomenal fighter', she admitted: “I don’t really remember a whole lot, all I know is every time I go on social media, I look like I’m dead.

“That’s not a very fun thing to see so I’ve been trying to stay off social media.”

She then shared her appreciation for the messages from fans and friends which she hadn't responded to yet, again reiterating that she doesn't remember much from the fight in the caption.

Barber also stated that 'God Is Good All of the Time', adding: "This is just another piece of the story. Thank you to the @ufc for the opportunity and congratulations @alexa_grasso,

"Love you all I will be back!!"

OH MY GOD WHAT A FINISH FROM ALEXA GRASSO!!!

SHE PUT MAYCEE BARBER OUT COLD 🥶 #UFCSeattle pic.twitter.com/QJ3kTGq0a8

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 29, 2026

The 27-year-old is considered one of the sport's best competitors, but she appeared unconscious before hitting the ground, as Grasso tightened the grip on her neck in the shocking footage.

Barber could also been seen grabbing the referee's legs in desperation as he separated the fighters, with the US-based fighter wrapping her arms around hi, as he laid on her back in the cage.

The flyweight was with her arms spread wide and her eyes open as she remained unconscious on the mat, as medics rushed to her aid.

Grasso appeared concerned after celebrating, realising that Barber could be in real trouble as she was treated.

Luckily, she regained consciousness and would leave the cage on her own, after standing with the referee while Grasso was announced the winner.

The result leaves Grasso with a record of 17-5-1 in her career, while Barber's record now stands at 15-3.