In a crossover moment between MMA and professional wrestling, former UFC fighter CM Punk disrupted Carlos Ulberg during Ulberg's WWE appearance in a match against Roman Reigns. Punk reportedly tore off Ulberg's ula fala, a traditional Samoan garland or lei that holds cultural significance, during the wrestling entertainment segment. The incident appears to be part of WWE's scripted storylines, with Ulberg making a guest appearance in the professional wrestling promotion. Ulberg, who competes as a light heavyweight contender in the UFC, was participating in the theatrical WWE production when the interruption occurred. The crossover highlights the ongoing relationship between MMA fighters and professional wrestling entertainment, with many athletes appearing in both worlds throughout their careers.
Carlos Ulberg made a rare crossover into professional wrestling entertainment on April 20, 2026, only for former UFC fighter CM Punk to insert himself into the moment in dramatic fashion.
Ulberg, the third-ranked UFC light heavyweight contender, appeared in a WWE segment alongside Roman Reigns when Punk interrupted the proceedings and tore off Ulberg's ula fala — a traditional Samoan garland or lei carrying deep cultural significance. The act, consistent with WWE's scripted storytelling format, drew attention for the symbolism of removing such a culturally meaningful item from the New Zealand fighter.
The 35-year-old Ulberg has built one of the most quietly impressive resumes in the 205-pound division. Fighting out of City Kickboxing, he carries a 15-1 record and lands an eye-catching 6.54 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy — numbers that place him among the more dangerous strikers in the light heavyweight rankings. Standing six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach, his physical tools are evident on both sides of competition.
Punk, now 47, holds a 0-1 MMA record from his time competing in the UFC and remains a prominent figure in professional wrestling. At six-foot-one with a 73-inch reach, he cut a recognizable figure stepping into the segment.
Why it matters
- Ulberg's appearance reinforces the growing crossover between top UFC athletes and WWE entertainment
- Targeting the ula fala adds a culturally charged dimension to the scripted angle
- The moment raises Ulberg's mainstream visibility at a time when he sits just outside UFC light heavyweight title contention
