Adesanya's 'buddy' wants Poatan to stay at light heavyweight to face him in the UFC

Alex Poatan is a standout Brazilian fighter at UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

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Carlos Ulberg wants Alex Poatan to remain in the light heavyweight division (up to 93kg) to have a chance to face the Brazilian. Recently, the Pataxó fighter caught the attention of the MMA world by suggesting a move up to heavyweight (up to 120,2kg) in pursuit of a super fight against Jon Jones , a decision celebrated by fans, but not by Israel Adesanya 's training partner.

In an interview with 'MMA Junkie', Carlos Ulberg stated that he dreams of facing Alex Poatan and considers the duel to be the biggest and most lucrative possible in the light heavyweight division.

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“I would love to fight Alex. That’s the big fight. That’s the fight that makes money. That’s an exciting fight. That’s the fight the fans would love to see. I hope he stays in the light heavyweight division so I can face him. That would be incredible. That would be the fight I’ve always wanted. Beating someone like Alex means you’re at the highest level. That would leave everyone else out of the equation, but I want Alex,” said Carlos Ulberg.

Despite Ulberg's desire for Poatan to remain in the light heavyweight division, the Brazilian is indeed set to face Jon Jones in the UFC's most dangerous division. This is because the former champion has given the green light for the challenge.

"Alex, I would love to bring the highest level of skill to the White House. I appreciate the respect you've shown, let's dance," Bones wrote in a post on X.

Since Jon Jones ' retirement was being considered, there had been speculation about a possible return of the American to the octagon. Poatan's challenge came after the Brazilian knocked out Magomed Ankalaev and regained the 93kg belt. The timing of the response also drew attention: it occurred right after the fight between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane ended in a no contest due to an accidental strike.

With Jon Jones vs. Poatan, UFC at the White House begins to heat up

UFC at the White House is currently scheduled to take place on June 14, 2026. Originally, the date considered was July 4, 2026, to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence.

However, the date was changed and President Donald Trump confirmed in October 2025 that the event will take place on June 14, which is also his 80th birthday.

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