“Unless a Triple Back Flip on Rountree” – Robert Whittaker Claims Carlos Ulberg is Certain for Title Shot Over Jiri Prochazka

Former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker jokes about how Jiri Prochazka or Khalil Rountree Jr may overtake Carlos Ulberg for a title shot.


“Unless a Triple Back Flip on Rountree” – Robert Whittaker Claims Carlos Ulberg is Certain for Title Shot Over Jiri Prochazka

Robert Whittaker jokes about Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr while positioning Carlos Ulberg (via Instagram, MMA Fighting)

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The light heavyweight division in the UFC remains a focal point as fighters position themselves for potential title opportunities. However, the upcoming undercard bout between Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr at UFC 320 has put the entire division on notice. Middleweight Robert Whittaker recently supported Carlos Ulberg while weighing in on the potential title landscape at 205 pounds after UFC 320.

Ulberg has gained momentum in the division with a series of notable victories. His performances have demonstrated a combination of striking prowess and athletic versatility, which has earned him recognition as a serious contender. His most recent performance against veteran Dominick Reyes at UFC Perth has pushed him into the conversation regarding title contention.

However, the main event of UFC 320 is a significant fight for the 205-pound division, as light heavyweight kingpin Magomed Ankalaev takes on Alex Pereira in a rematch. Regarding this, there were speculations about whether the fight between Prochazka and Rountree determines the next title challenger. Whittaker recently supported Ulberg as the real contender in a comical situation for the UFC 320 card.

Well, unless Jiri does like a triple backflip on Rountree’s head. Apart from something spectacular like that, I don’t see the fight happening.

Robert Whittaker via MMArcade podcast

This perspective underscores ongoing discussions about merit-based opportunities in the division and reflects the broader debate on how title shots are awarded in the UFC. Whittaker’s support for Ulberg undoubtedly also stems from their Kiwi heritage. While Whittaker was raised in Australia and holds an Australian passport, he has embraced and defended his Māori heritage on multiple instances.

Prochazka, a former champion, remains one of the most unpredictable fighters in the sport due to his unorthodox style. His unique training routines, which include meditation, samurai-inspired mental conditioning, and unusual drills, have contributed to his reputation as a dangerous opponent. Facing him, Rountree brings knockout power and a relentless approach, making this fight a compelling clash of styles.

It remains to be seen if the Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr bout at UFC 320 proves Robert Whittaker’s prediction. With fighters like Carlos Ulberg demonstrating consistent success, the UFC faces decisions on matching athletes in a way that balances competitiveness and the division’s overall narrative. Strategic matchmaking remains a crucial factor in shaping the light heavyweight landscape.

Jiri Prochazka reveals Carlos Ulberg denied to fight him at UFC Perth

Jiri Prochazka and Carlos Ulberg have quickly become two of the most talked-about names in the UFC light heavyweight division. Both fighters are climbing toward the top, and their paths nearly crossed when Prochazka expressed interest in facing Ulberg in Australia. That potential matchup, however, never materialized.

Jiri Prochazka reveals Carlos Ulberg ducked him for Perth event
Jiri Prochazka reveals Carlos Ulberg ducked him for Perth event (via MMA Fighting)

The Czech fighter revealed that he had targeted Ulberg for a bout in Perth, but the fight did not materialize. Ulberg has been building momentum with his recent performances, while the ‘Czech Samurai’ remains a former champion determined to reclaim his place at the top. Prochazka recently spoke about the failed matchup when asked about Ulberg’s title shot requests.

I really don’t care what he wants. He (Ulberg) already had the chance to face me, and I wanted to go to Australia to fight him, but he declined that. I will not speak for what is after the fight; my full focus is on Khalil, and that’s all.

Jiri Prochazka via MMA Junkie

With the title picture still wide open, both fighters remain central to the conversation. Jiri Prochazka’s experience and past reign, combined with Carlos Ulberg’s rapid rise through the rankings, make them likely candidates for championship contention in the near future. Their trajectories suggest that a clash between them could eventually determine the next challenger for the belt.

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