Carlos Ulberg Plants Seed for Magomed Ankalaev Super Fight after UFC Perth KO Win

After dominating Dominick Reyes, Carlos Ulberg's prediction for a Magomed Ankalaev fight may come true.

Carlos Ulberg Plants Seed for Magomed Ankalaev Super Fight after UFC Perth KO Win

Carlos Ulberg wants Magomed Ankalaev next (via MMA Fighting, BBC)

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Many UFC fighters believe they possess the talent and ability to challenge the reigning champion. While some earn attention through bold callouts and sharp mic skills, others make their case with standout performances inside the Octagon. That was the case for Carlos Ulberg, who set his sights on light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev after delivering a dominant showing at UFC Perth.

Ulberg scored a highlight-reel knockout victory over former title challenger Dominick Reyes in the first round. Reyes, who previously fought Jon Jones for the championship and pushed the former champion to the limit at UFC 247, represented a formidable opponent for Ulberg. By stopping Reyes in emphatic fashion, Ulberg not only extended his winning streak but also improved his case.

However, Ulberg himself has built up an impressive resume in the promotion since his debut in 2020. With wins over the likes of Jan Blachowicz, Volkan Oezdemir, and Alonzo Menifield, he has cemented himself as one of the potential title challengers.

A recent interview with Ulberg from March 2025 has resurfaced, in which he answered a question regarding how a possible fight between him and Ankalaev would play out.

You know how it goes down

Carlos Ulberg via FULLSEND MMA

The win immediately thrust Ulberg into the title conversation, with reigning light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev viewed as the ultimate target. Ankalaev, who captured the belt by defeating Alex Pereira at UFC 313, has since become a dominant figure at 205 pounds. His undefeated run since 2018 includes victories over Anthony Smith, Johnny Walker, and Thiago Santos.

The light heavyweight division itself is crowded with top contenders and former champions. Jiri Prochazka, Jamahal Hill, and Aleksandar Rakic remain in the mix, each vying for opportunities to reclaim or capture gold. Ulberg’s rapid rise now places him alongside these names, giving the UFC another fresh contender to build around at a time when the division is looking for new challenges for Ankalaev.

As the UFC calendar moves forward, Ankalaev is already scheduled to defend his title in a rematch against Pereira at UFC 320. However, Carlos Ulberg’s statement win at UFC Perth ensures his name remains a part of the title picture. Should he continue his momentum, the prospect of a showdown between Ulberg and Ankalaev could soon become one of the defining storylines in the light heavyweight division.

Is Carlos Ulberg the backup for the Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira rematch at UFC 320?

In mixed martial arts, title fights often carry an extra layer of intrigue when a backup fighter is placed on standby. These roles are crucial to ensuring that the main event moves forward even in the event of unforeseen circumstances. For UFC 320, Carlos Ulberg aims to serve as the backup fighter for the light heavyweight title bout.

Carlos Ulberg wants to be the backup for Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira 2
Carlos Ulberg wants to be the backup for Magomed Ankalaev vs Alex Pereira 2 (via MMA Fighting, Supersport)

His potential placement as the backup for the championship clash between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira highlighted his growing stature within the division. Should either competitor be unable to compete on fight night, Ulberg would step in and challenge for the belt on short notice. He recently spoke about being the potential backup at the UFC Perth post fight interview.

I said then and there that I will be the backup for that fight (UFC 320). I don’t think anyone has fought a fight and the very next week get a fight for the title. That’s what i envisioned that what i feel like can happen.

Carlos Ulberg via UFC Perth post fight presser

For Carlos Ulberg, being designated as the standby fighter represents a significant step forward in his career. Even if he is not called upon at UFC 320, the assignment alone elevates his standing and ensures that his name remains central to the light heavyweight title picture.

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