Carlos Ulberg has ruled out a rematch with Jiri Prochazka, citing respect issues following their fight. Ulberg noted that Prochazka did not approach him to offer congratulations after the bout, which is unusual behavior. While Ulberg typically demonstrates respect and appreciation for all opponents, he felt this situation was different because he believes Prochazka was playing to the crowd. Ulberg expressed that the entire situation could have been handled better but feels it has been clouded by Prochazka's controversial comments about showing "mercy" during their fight. The post asks fans whether Prochazka deserves an immediate rematch.
Carlos Ulberg has publicly ruled out any interest in a rematch with Jiri Prochazka, citing a breakdown in respect between the two fighters in the aftermath of their bout.
Ulberg, known as "Black Jag," is a 35-year-old light heavyweight from New Zealand fighting out of City Kickboxing. Now ranked third in the division with a record of 15-1-0, he has established himself as one of the more dangerous strikers in the weight class, landing 6.54 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy. His grievance with Prochazka stems not from what happened inside the cage but from what did not happen after the final horn — specifically, Prochazka not approaching him to offer congratulations, a gesture Ulberg described as out of the ordinary.
The situation was further complicated by Prochazka's remarks suggesting he had shown "mercy" during the fight, comments Ulberg took exception to. While he acknowledged the entire episode could have been handled more gracefully, he made clear that Prochazka's conduct and those subsequent comments changed how he views the possibility of a second meeting.
Prochazka, the 33-year-old Czech Republic standout ranked second at light heavyweight, carries a 32-6-1 record and brings an unorthodox, high-volume approach to the division, landing 5.69 significant strikes per minute with an 80-inch reach. He trains out of Jetsaam Gym Brno and has been one of the most prominent figures in the 205-pound weight class in recent years.
Why it matters
- Ulberg's rejection of a rematch removes an obvious matchup from the light heavyweight top-five picture
- Any lingering controversy over Prochazka's post-fight comments could influence how the UFC structures upcoming divisional bouts
- Both men remain firmly in title contention, meaning the rankings implications of their rivalry carry real weight going forward
