Carlos Ulberg won the light heavyweight title at UFC 327 by knocking out Jiri Prochazka, despite suffering a knee injury during the fight. His injury raises concerns about the timing of his next title defense.
Photo by Ed Mulholland/Zuffa LLC
Carlos Ulberg shocked the MMA world at UFC 327 by knocking out Jiri Prochazka to claim the light heavyweight title last Saturday.
The New Zealander achieved the feat despite suffering a visible knee injury early in the fight, leaving many expecting Prochazka to exploit the situation.
Instead, Ulberg found a finish before that could happen, but his condition now raises questions about how soon he can defend his belt.
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Ulberg outlined who he believes should be next in line for a title shot once he is ready to return.
The New Zealander said: âWell, I donât know. Youâve got [Magomed] Ankalaev, who has been one of the best there and I think thatâs the only guy that I need to test myself with. I think heâs deserving.â
âBut, again, I think itâs just leaving it for the UFC, they know what theyâre up to. But definitely not a rematch for Jiri.â
In spite of Ulbergâs words, any plans remain dependent on his recovery, with the possibility that an ACL injury could keep him out for over a year before a title defence.
Magomed Ankalaev has not fought since losing the belt in a rematch against Alex Pereira in October 2025.
There were suggestions he could soon face Robert Whittaker, although that fight was later dismissed.
The Russian star has hinted he could return in July for the Abu Dhabi card.
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Carlos Ulberg suffered a visible knee injury early in his fight against Jiri Prochazka.
Carlos Ulberg won the UFC light heavyweight title on Saturday at UFC 327.
Carlos Ulberg knocked out Jiri Prochazka to claim the light heavyweight title at UFC 327.
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