Carlos Ulberg has rejected the possibility of a rematch with Jiri Prochazka, citing a lack of respect shown by the Czech fighter. Ulberg noted that Prochazka did not approach him to congratulate him after their fight, which is unusual for his typical post-fight interactions. He expressed that while he normally demonstrates respect and love toward his opponents, this situation felt different. Ulberg suggested that Prochazka's "mercy" storyline was playing to the public rather than genuine, and that the entire narrative has clouded what could have been a better story. He indicated the whole situation left a negative impression on what could have been handled better.
Carlos Ulberg has publicly shut the door on any potential rematch with Jiri Prochazka, citing a lack of basic respect from the Czech contender following their bout.
Ulberg, known as "Black Jag," is ranked third in the UFC light heavyweight division and carries a 15-1-0 professional record. The 35-year-old New Zealander out of City Kickboxing stands six-foot-four and posts an impressive 6.54 significant strikes landed per minute at 55 percent accuracy, making him one of the more active and efficient strikers in the 205-pound weight class.
Prochazka, ranked second at light heavyweight, holds a 32-6-1 record and brings similarly aggressive offensive output, averaging 5.69 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy. The 33-year-old Czech fighter out of Jetsaam Gym Brno stands six-foot-three with an 80-inch reach and has long been known for an unorthodox, high-volume fighting style.
Ulberg's grievance centers on what happened after the fight rather than during it. He noted that Prochazka did not come to him with congratulations, which he described as a departure from the mutual respect he normally expects and extends to opponents. Ulberg also took aim at Prochazka's public "mercy" narrative surrounding the fight, suggesting it was crafted for the audience rather than reflecting any genuine sentiment. In Ulberg's view, the entire episode left a sour impression on what could have been a more straightforward and respectful post-fight story.
Why it matters
- Ulberg's refusal effectively removes what would have been a natural rematch between the division's second- and third-ranked fighters
- With both men sitting just outside the light heavyweight title picture, the fallout could reshape how the top of the division is matched up
- The contrast in styles — two high-volume orthodox strikers with near-identical accuracy — would have made a rematch a compelling sporting proposition
