Carlos Ulberg has rejected the idea of an immediate rematch with Jiri Prochazka, citing post-fight behavior and perceived insincerity. Ulberg stated that Prochazka did not approach him to congratulate him after their fight, which contrasts with Ulberg's usual practice of showing respect and love to his opponents. He suggested that Prochazka's conduct was more about playing to the audience than genuine sportsmanship. Ulberg expressed frustration that the fight's narrative has been overshadowed by Prochazka's talk about showing "mercy" during their bout. The post asks followers whether Prochazka deserves an immediate rematch.
Carlos Ulberg has publicly dismissed the prospect of an immediate rematch with Jiri Prochazka, citing what he views as a lack of genuine sportsmanship from the Czech fighter following their light heavyweight bout.
Ulberg, known as "Black Jag," made clear that Prochazka never approached him to offer congratulations after the fight. For Ulberg, that silence carried real weight. He noted that showing respect and genuine connection with opponents after competition is something he holds as a personal standard, and Prochazka's absence in that moment felt pointed.
The New Zealander also expressed frustration over the way the fight's story has been reframed in the aftermath. Prochazka has spoken about showing "mercy" during their contest, a framing that Ulberg finds disrespectful to what was achieved. He suggested Prochazka's post-fight conduct was directed more at the crowd than at any sincere acknowledgment of his opponent.
Ulberg enters this moment as the number-three ranked light heavyweight in the world, carrying a 15-1 record at 35 years old. Fighting out of City Kickboxing in New Zealand, he stands six-foot-four at 193 cm with a 77-inch reach and lands an impressive 6.54 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy, making him one of the more prolific strikers in the division.
Prochazka, ranked second at light heavyweight, holds a 32-6-1 record at 33 years old. The Czech fighter trains out of Jetsaam Gym Brno and stands six-foot-three at 191 cm with an 80-inch reach. He lands 5.69 significant strikes per minute, also at 55 percent accuracy.
Why it matters
- Ulberg's rejection of a rematch could reshape the top of the light heavyweight rankings and influence who pushes for a title shot next
- The number-two and number-three ranked fighters in the same division clashing publicly adds volatility to an already unsettled 205-pound picture
- Ulberg's comments suggest style and spectacle will not override his personal standards when it comes to choosing future opponents
