UFC champion Carlos Ulberg praises the 'new Chael Sonnen' and opens the door for a fight: 'I'd beat him up'

Ulberg at a UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

Carlos Ulberg experienced an unforgettable moment, one he will never forget. In the main event of UFC 327, held last Saturday (11) in Miami (USA), the New Zealander, even with a serious leg injury and under pressure, managed to knock out Jiri Prochazka in the first round and won the vacant light heavyweight belt (up to 93 kg). It is true that the athlete will likely take a while to compete again, but he is already indicating that he intends to be an active champion.

In fact, at the post-UFC 327 press conference, Ulberg made it clear that he will face whoever the company decides and even opened the door to facing the controversial Josh Hokit . Furthermore, the bad boy was one of the highlights of the show, alongside the New Zealander, earning the performance and fight of the night bonuses for the bloody and historic battle he had with Curtis Blaydes in the heavyweight division (up to 120,2 kg).

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The fight changed many people's view of the American, as he proved that, in addition to trash talk, he also knows how to fight. Interestingly, Ulberg had a strange moment with 'The Incredible Hok'. Backstage, when provoked by Hokit, the New Zealander completely ignored him and laughed. Now, 'Black Jag' acknowledges the athlete's value, but states that he would put an end to his undefeated streak.

“It’s funny. He’s a peculiar character and he showed that he’s also a good fighter. I enjoyed watching this fight backstage. I think maybe it’s something the UFC needs. It was a good fight. He was pushed forward and also had a good strategy,” said the fighter.

"I think he was playing dead at certain points, and I think that was also part of his strategy. Yes, he has personality and can fight, but I would beat him up," he concluded.

Fighters from Ulberg in MMA

Carlos Ulberg , 35, is experiencing a magical phase in his career. The New Zealander began his MMA journey in 2011, debuted in the UFC in 2021, and became the light heavyweight champion in 2026. In the sport, he has built a record of 14 wins, ten by stoppage (nine by knockout and one by submission), and one loss. His main victories were over Dominick Reyes , Jan Błachowicz, Jiri Prochazka , and Volkan Oezdemir.

Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.