“I’m not Gonna Eat” – UFC Perth Star Carlos Ulberg’s Ultimate Sacrifice to Make History Revealed

After putting on a dominant performance at UFC Perth, Carlos Ulberg sets his sights on being the backup fighter for the UFC 320 main event.

“I’m not Gonna Eat” – UFC Perth Star Carlos Ulberg’s Ultimate Sacrifice to Make History Revealed

Carlos Ulberg reveals plan for potential future (via Instagram)

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In the lead-up to major UFC events, fighters often go beyond the usual training grind, pushing their limits to seize career-defining opportunities. These moments not only test physical endurance but also highlight the sacrifices athletes make to stand on the biggest stage in mixed martial arts. At UFC 320, Carlos Ulberg’s determination is under the spotlight as he aims to solidify his place among the elite.

Ulberg, who has steadily built his reputation in the light heavyweight division, has positioned himself as a key contender. Following a dominant victory at UFC Perth against veteran Dominick Reyes, he was vocal about pursuing opportunities at the top of the division. However, with Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev set for UFC 320, Ulberg recently added that he can play a significant role.

The New Zealand fighter directly approached UFC executive Hunter Campbell after his win at UFC Perth to clarify his intentions. By volunteering to step in should either champion or challenger be unable to compete, Ulberg has demonstrated both ambition and discipline. The role of a backup fighter requires them to make weight and stay in peak condition, despite the uncertainty of whether they will fight.

I told him that I am prepared to be a backup for next week. Fly me to Vegas and I’ll be there. I am not going to eat or drink anything today. Go spend some time with the family and if need be, I’ll be there to backup anyone for that title shot.

Carlos Ulberg via UFC Perth post-fight interview

UFC 320 holds major implications for the light heavyweight division. With Pereira and Ankalaev battling for supremacy, Ulberg’s presence as a potential replacement ensures that the event can proceed at the highest level even in the face of unexpected changes. This also places Ulberg in a unique position, where his preparation may grant him a breakthrough opportunity that could accelerate his rise to the title.

Training is central to Ulberg’s preparation. He is based in Auckland, New Zealand, where he trains at City Kickboxing, one of the world’s premier MMA gyms. The facility has produced two UFC champions and is renowned for elevating kickboxers to the top of various weight classes. He trains with the likes of Israel Adesanya and Alexander Volkanovski under Eugene Bareman.

Being a backup fighter for a championship bout imposes additional demands. Carlos Ulberg must maintain fight weight and conditioning without certainty of competing, a challenge that requires strict discipline in diet, training schedules, and recovery. His preparation reflects the high stakes and intense pressure faced by athletes who are ready to capitalize on sudden opportunities to make history.

Fans react to Carlos Ulberg’s ambition to fight as a backup at UFC 320

Fans have long been fascinated by the sacrifices and dedication that mixed martial artists put into their craft. Social media discussions have increasingly focused on how fighters like Carlos Ulberg prepare behind the scenes, highlighting both the physical and mental toll of competing at the highest level.

Carlos Ulberg
Carlos Ulberg (via Yahoo Sports)

Regarding Ulberg’s request to serve as the official backup for UFC 320, reactions have been mixed. Some fans praise his commitment, noting that staying ready for a championship fight requires immense discipline and courage. Supporters admire his willingness to sacrifice comfort and personal time to maintain peak condition. Here are some fan reactions to Carlos Ulberg’s ambitions:

However, some fans have reminded others that Jiri Prochazka has already requested to be the official backup fighter for the bout and withdraw from his bout against Khalil Rountree Jr. While some appreciate Carlos Ulberg’s dedication, others question the practicality and potential complications of having overlapping backup fighters.

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