The Ultimate Fighting Championship`s light heavyweight division is a shark tank, perpetually churning with contenders. As UFC Perth approaches, all eyes are on Carlos Ulberg, the “Black Jag,” whose upcoming bout against Dominick Reyes could propel him closer to a coveted title shot. Yet, amidst the immediate challenge, Ulberg has already cast his gaze further, offering a surprising, and rather strategic, preference for his ultimate championship opponent.
With the highly anticipated rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira looming at UFC 320, the division`s top spot is fiercely contested. Conventional wisdom might suggest Ulberg, a formidable striker with a kickboxing background, would naturally gravitate towards a clash with the equally devastating Alex Pereira, known affectionately as “Poatan.” After all, stylistic matchups often make for compelling narratives and fan-favorite bouts. However, Ulberg`s recent revelation takes a different turn, suggesting a deeper, more calculated approach.
The Ankalaev Advantage: A Calculated Risk?
In a candid interview, Ulberg articulated his choice: he`d prefer to face Magomed Ankalaev for the light heavyweight strap. This isn`t merely a casual comment; it`s a strategic declaration in a division where every potential advantage is weighed. Ulberg sees Ankalaev as a “big threat,” acknowledging the Russian`s comprehensive skill set, which often blends powerful striking with high-level wrestling and control. But it`s the follow-up that truly illuminates his thinking:
“I`d like Ankalaev to get that win because I know what I can do with him.”
This statement, while seemingly simple, is loaded with implications. It suggests Ulberg has meticulously studied Ankalaev, identifying potential vulnerabilities or a stylistic matchup he believes favors him. Perhaps Ulberg, a skilled technician from the renowned City Kickboxing gym, sees specific openings in Ankalaev`s game, or perhaps he believes his defense against a more wrestling-centric attack is more refined than what he`d face against Pereira`s pure striking power. It`s the kind of subtle confidence that separates contenders from champions.
Pereira`s Uncertain Tenure: A Factor in Play?
Ulberg also touched upon Alex Pereira`s future in the sport, hinting at a potential shorter tenure for the former two-division champion. While praising Pereira`s toughness and accomplishments, Ulberg noted:
“I mean, from what I`ve heard, I`m not too sure how… I mean, he`s paid his dues and he`s done a great job in the UFC and I just feel like Ankalaev could be in the game a little longer.”
This perspective, whether speculative or based on inside information, introduces another layer to Ulberg`s strategy. Targeting a fighter perceived to be a long-term fixture at the top—like Ankalaev—could offer a more enduring legacy should Ulberg secure the title. It`s a pragmatic viewpoint, focusing not just on the immediate challenge but on the broader landscape of championship reigns. Or, one might cynically suggest, it`s a polite way of sidestepping a fighter whose explosive power has flattened many a worthy opponent, while offering a seemingly valid long-term strategic justification.
The Road Through Perth: Dominick Reyes and the Nine-Fight Streak
Of course, all discussions of future title shots are inherently conditional. Before Ulberg can even dream of facing Ankalaev or Pereira, he must navigate the formidable challenge of Dominick Reyes at UFC Perth. Reyes, a former title challenger himself, represents a significant test and a chance for Ulberg to make the emphatic statement his career arguably needs.
Ulberg is currently riding an impressive win streak, and a victory over Reyes would extend it to nine consecutive wins. In many divisions, such a streak would unequivocally guarantee a title shot. However, as the “Black Jag” himself acknowledges, some of his wins, while effective, haven`t delivered the kind of highlight-reel finishes that ignite fan demand and catapult fighters directly into championship contention. The light heavyweight division is also stacked with other compelling narratives:
- Jiri Prochazka, known for his relentless, unorthodox style and thrilling finishes.
- Khalil Rountree Jr., who consistently delivers exciting fights and dramatic knockouts.
These fighters often produce the “moments” that Ulberg`s streak, despite its length, has sometimes lacked. This puts additional pressure on Ulberg to not just win against Reyes, but to do so decisively and spectacularly. He needs a performance that speaks volumes, echoing his confident declaration:
“Nine is a good number. I’ve got nine lives, I’m the ‘Black Jag’.”
The Light Heavyweight Crucible: A Division on Fire
Carlos Ulberg`s calculated call-out of Magomed Ankalaev adds another intriguing layer to the UFC`s light heavyweight division. It`s a division brimming with talent, strategic plays, and the promise of electrifying matchups. Ulberg isn`t just seeking a title; he`s looking for the *right* title fight, one where he believes his skills can shine brightest and his path to championship glory is clearest, even if that means choosing the “bigger threat” with whom he “knows what he can do.”
As UFC Perth draws near, all eyes will be on Ulberg to deliver the performance that solidifies his claim and sets the stage for a potential showdown that could reshape the division`s hierarchy. The “Black Jag” has laid out his strategic hand; now he must play it flawlessly.
Marcus Bellamy 
Connor Westbrook