Carlos Ulberg has rejected the idea of a rematch with Jiri Prochazka, citing a lack of respect from the Czech fighter. Ulberg stated that Prochazka didn't even approach him to congratulate him after the fight, which is unusual as Ulberg typically shows respect and appreciation to all his opponents. He expressed disappointment that the situation was different with Prochazka, suggesting it was merely an attempt to play to the audience. Ulberg believes the entire storyline has been clouded by Prochazka's claims about showing "mercy" during their fight. The post questions whether Prochazka deserves an immediate rematch.
Carlos Ulberg has publicly shut down any talk of a rematch with Jiri Prochazka, saying a lack of basic respect from the Czech contender makes the prospect a non-starter.
Ulberg, ranked third in the UFC light heavyweight division, carries a 15-1-0 record into the aftermath of the fight. The 35-year-old New Zealander, who trains out of City Kickboxing, is known for his sportsmanship toward opponents — which made Prochazka's post-fight behavior stand out all the more. Ulberg lands 6.54 significant strikes per minute with 55 percent accuracy, making him one of the division's more active and efficient strikers. At six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach, he carries the physical tools to compete at the highest level of the 205-pound class.
Prochazka, ranked second in the division with a 32-6-1 record, is no stranger to controversy. The 33-year-old Czech fighter trains out of Jetsaam Gym Brno and brings his own aggressive output to the cage, landing 5.69 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy and possessing an 80-inch reach that gives him a considerable range advantage. His claims of having shown "mercy" during the fight with Ulberg have drawn widespread attention and appear to be at the center of the falling-out between the two fighters.
Ulberg stated that Prochazka did not approach him to offer congratulations after their bout — a gesture Ulberg considers standard and meaningful. He suggested that whatever Prochazka said publicly was little more than performance for the crowd rather than genuine sentiment.
Why it matters
- Ulberg's refusal to engage removes what would have been a natural rematch at the top of the light heavyweight rankings
- With Prochazka at No. 2 and Ulberg at No. 3, their rivalry directly shapes the title picture in a stacked division
- The dispute over Prochazka's "mercy" narrative adds a personal dimension that goes beyond typical fighter promotion
- Any path forward for either man likely runs through the divisional elite, whether together or separately
