Manager Ash Belcastro confirmed that Carlos Ulberg suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Belcastro stated that the surgery went "very well" and Ulberg is "focused on returning as soon as possible." Recovery from this type of injury typically takes up to 12 months. There is uncertainty about whether Ulberg will be able to compete in the Octagon by the end of 2026. The post raises the question of whether a temporary title should be introduced during his absence.
Carlos Ulberg has suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament, his manager Ash Belcastro confirmed, casting serious doubt over the New Zealand light heavyweight contender's availability for the remainder of 2026.
Belcastro reported that Ulberg's surgery went "very well" and that the 35-year-old is "focused on returning as soon as possible." ACL recoveries of this nature typically require up to 12 months, meaning a return to the Octagon before the end of 2026 remains uncertain.
Ulberg, known as "Black Jag," trains out of City Kickboxing in Auckland and currently holds the third-ranked position in the UFC light heavyweight division. He carries an impressive 15-1 record and stands six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach, making him one of the more physically imposing fighters in the 205-pound class. His striking output underscores why he is regarded as a serious title threat — he lands 6.54 significant strikes per minute at an accuracy rate of 55 percent.
Why it matters
- Ulberg is ranked third at light heavyweight, so a prolonged absence reshapes the division's title picture significantly.
- A 12-month recovery window could sideline him well into 2027, opening the door for other contenders to leapfrog him in the rankings.
- His extended absence has already prompted discussion around whether the promotion should consider an interim light heavyweight title in the meantime.
- The City Kickboxing team loses one of its marquee fighters during what has been a strong run of form for the gym.
