Pimblett praises Ulberg's resilience in Prochazka victory

Paddy Pimblett has publicly praised Carlos Ulberg for his gutsy performance against Jiri Prochazka at UFC 327 on April 11, 2026, specifically highlighting the New Zealander's decision to fight through a serious knee injury rather than surrender.

Pimblett, known as "The Baddy," is the sixth-ranked lightweight contender out of England. The 31-year-old carries a 23-4 record and trains out of Next Generation MMA Liverpool. He averages 5.49 significant strikes per minute with 52 percent accuracy, and his submission rate of 1.2 attempts per 15 minutes marks him as a genuine finishing threat on the ground.

Ulberg, nicknamed "Black Jag," is a 35-year-old light heavyweight from New Zealand who trains alongside some of the sport's elite at City Kickboxing. Now holding a 15-1 record and ranked third in the division, the six-foot-four fighter has developed into one of the most dangerous strikers at 205 pounds, averaging 6.54 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy. His win over Prochazka moved him past one of the division's most accomplished veterans.

Prochazka, the second-ranked light heavyweight from the Czech Republic, entered the bout at 32-6-1. The 33-year-old orthodox striker out of Jetsaam Gym Brno stands six-foot-three with an 80-inch reach and is known for his high output and unconventional attacking style, landing 5.69 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy.

Why it matters

• Ulberg's win over the second-ranked Prochazka significantly strengthens his case as a light heavyweight title contender
• Pimblett's public acknowledgment from a fellow ranked fighter adds to the broader recognition of Ulberg's performance
• The result reshuffles the top of a crowded light heavyweight division, with Ulberg now firmly positioned as a championship-level threat