Carlos Ulberg 'plays matchmaker' and suggests opponents for Ankalaev and Borrachinha in the UFC: 'The fans would love it'

Ulberg celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube/UFC

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Carlos Ulberg knows exactly how to organize the light heavyweight division (up to 93 kg) while he is still unable to return to the octagon. Despite knocking out Jiri Prochazka at UFC 327 in April, the New Zealander injured his knee during the fight and there is still no date set for his return.

The situation has opened up space for Paulo Borrachinha and Magomed Ankalaev to gain prominence in the race for the top of the category, as both are coming off victories and appear as the main contenders for a possible interim title.

Even though UFC president Dana White had already signaled positively towards the creation of an interim belt, Ulberg decided to act behind the scenes. Through his Instagram stories, the champion suggested possible opponents for Ankalaev and Borrachinha, assuming the role of "matchmaker" and trying to keep the division active until his return.

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Magomed Ankalaev taunts Borrachinha and suggests the perfect scenario to face the Brazilian in the UFC.

"After last night's fights, here are my thoughts on Ankalaev vs. Jiri. Give them both a full camp. It's a fight the division deserves and, stylistically, it's one the fans would love to see," wrote Carlos Ulberg.

“Costa vs. Rountree. That’s the unknown. High risk, high reward. Someone will come out with a big advantage. When the dust settles… I’ll be ready. Whoever deserves it. See you in 2027,” concluded the champion.

What injury did Carlos Ulberg suffer at UFC 327?

Carlos Ulberg won the belt against Jiri Prochazka At UFC 327, however, in addition to losing the title, he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is one of the most frequent orthopedic injuries, especially among athletes. Responsible for stabilizing the knee, the ligament prevents excessive displacement of the tibia relative to the femur and helps control the rotational movements of the joint.

In most cases, the injury occurs without direct contact, being caused by sudden movements, such as abrupt changes of direction with the foot fixed on the ground, rapid decelerations, improper landings after jumps, or even hyperextension of the knee. At the moment of rupture, it is common to hear a popping sound, followed by intense pain, rapid swelling, and a feeling of instability, as if the knee were giving way.

Treatment varies according to the severity and the athlete's profile: it can be conservative, with physiotherapy focused on muscle strengthening, or surgical, indicated mainly for athletes, with ligament reconstruction through grafting. Complete recovery, in surgical cases, can take between nine and twelve months.

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