Carlos Ulberg has dismissed the possibility of an immediate rematch with Jiri Prochazka following his recent victory. Ulberg stated that Prochazka didn't even approach him to congratulate him after the fight, which he found disrespectful. While Ulberg typically shows respect and love to all his opponents, he felt this situation was different. He suggested that Prochazka's behavior seemed like playing to the crowd, and expressed that the entire situation could have been better handled, but was clouded by Prochazka's claims about showing "mercy" during their fight.
Carlos Ulberg has shut down any notion of an immediate rematch with Jiri Prochazka, citing a lack of respect from the Czech fighter in the aftermath of their bout.
Ulberg, known as "Black Jag," improved to 15-1-0 with the victory and currently sits third in the UFC light heavyweight rankings. The 35-year-old New Zealander, who trains out of the renowned City Kickboxing gym, stands six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach and has built a reputation as one of the division's most active strikers, landing 6.54 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy.
Prochazka, ranked second at light heavyweight, carries a record of 32-6-1 and remains one of the most dangerous fighters in the division. The 33-year-old Czech, who fights out of Jetsaam Gym Brno, is similarly aggressive on the feet, averaging 5.69 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy. Standing six-foot-three with an 80-inch reach, he presents a formidable physical presence in any matchup.
Ulberg stated that Prochazka did not approach him to offer congratulations after the fight, a gesture he found disrespectful. While Ulberg acknowledged he typically extends respect and goodwill to opponents regardless of outcome, he made clear this situation felt different. He also took issue with Prochazka's claims of having shown "mercy" during the fight, suggesting those remarks clouded what could have been a more dignified post-fight exchange and that Prochazka appeared to be playing to the crowd rather than acting sincerely.
Why it matters
- Ulberg's win over the number-two ranked Prochazka strengthens his case for a title shot at light heavyweight.
- A rematch being ruled out by Ulberg could redirect both fighters toward other top contenders or championship pursuits.
- The post-fight conduct dispute adds a public dimension to the rivalry that may factor into how the UFC books each man going forward.
