Carlos Ulberg has rejected Jiri Prochazka's assertion that he showed mercy during their bout. Ulberg stated there was no mercy and that the difference between a champion and someone playing to the crowd lies in that distinction. He believes Prochazka was driven by fear and indecision, and is now making excuses to secure a rematch. Ulberg dismissed any chance of Prochazka getting a rematch and predicted that Magomed Ankalaev would defeat him. He emphasized that he is focused on being the best in the world rather than playing to the audience.
Carlos Ulberg has fired back at Jiri Prochazka, flatly rejecting the Czech fighter's claim that he showed mercy during their light heavyweight bout and accusing the former champion of making excuses to secure a rematch.
Ulberg, who competes out of City Kickboxing and carries a 15-1-0 record, argued that there was no mercy shown and drew a sharp distinction between a true champion and someone who plays to the crowd. The 35-year-old New Zealander, currently ranked third in the light heavyweight division, suggested Prochazka's behavior was driven by fear and indecision rather than any act of generosity. Standing six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach and landing 6.54 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy, Ulberg has established himself as one of the division's most dangerous strikers.
Prochazka, ranked second at light heavyweight, holds a 32-6-1 record and remains one of the sport's most recognizable names. The 33-year-old from the Czech Republic is known for his high-volume, aggressive style, averaging 5.69 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy over his career. Despite those numbers, Ulberg dismissed any prospect of a rematch and predicted that number-one-ranked Magomed Ankalaev would hand Prochazka a defeat.
Ankalaev, a 34-year-old from Russia ranked fifth pound-for-pound, carries a 21-2-1 record and brings a more measured, precise approach to the octagon, landing 3.65 significant strikes per minute while mixing in 0.79 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Ulberg's dismissal of a rematch signals his intention to pursue higher-ranked opponents and a title shot
- His critique of Prochazka's mindset adds a psychological edge to an already heated rivalry
- Ankalaev's position at number one means the winner of any Prochazka-Ankalaev contest would likely shape the next title picture, directly affecting Ulberg's path forward
