Carlos Ulberg has ruled out an immediate rematch with Jiri Prochazka following their recent bout. Ulberg criticized Prochazka for not congratulating him after the fight and suggested that Prochazka's behavior was merely playing to the audience. He expressed disappointment that the narrative surrounding their fight has been overshadowed by Prochazka's claims of showing "mercy" during the contest. Ulberg believes the entire situation could have been handled better and maintains his usual respect for opponents was not fully reciprocated in this case.
Carlos Ulberg has publicly ruled out an immediate rematch with Jiri Prochazka, directing sharp criticism at the Czech fighter over his conduct following their recent light heavyweight bout.
Ulberg, known as "Black Jag," expressed frustration that the post-fight conversation has been shaped largely by Prochazka's claim that he showed "mercy" during the contest. The New Zealander dismissed that characterization and took particular issue with Prochazka failing to congratulate him after the fight, suggesting the gesture was performed for the crowd rather than out of genuine sportsmanship. Ulberg made clear he felt the mutual respect he typically extends to opponents was not returned in this case.
The 35-year-old trains out of City Kickboxing in Auckland and carries a 15-1-0 professional record into this dispute. Ranked third in the UFC light heavyweight division, he is one of the more active strikers in the weight class, landing 6.54 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy. At six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach, he presents a formidable physical profile.
Prochazka, currently ranked second at light heavyweight, holds a 32-6-1 record and brings his own high-volume striking game, averaging 5.69 significant strikes per minute with the same 55 percent accuracy. The 33-year-old Czech fighter stands six-foot-three with an 80-inch reach and trains out of Jetsaam Gym Brno.
Why it matters
- Both fighters sit directly behind the light heavyweight title picture, meaning their rivalry carries genuine divisional weight.
- Ulberg's refusal of an immediate rematch could redirect both men toward other top-five matchups.
- The public friction over post-fight conduct adds a personal dimension that could shape how a future meeting, if booked, is framed.
