Why New Zealand’s Rising Light Heavyweight Deserves a UFC Title Shot
At UFC Fight Night in Perth, Australia, Carlos Ulberg made a statement. Facing Dominick Reyes in a high-stakes Light Heavyweight matchup, both men entered the Octagon riding win streaks and seeking to climb closer to title contention. Ulberg, however, stole the spotlight with a sharp combination that dropped Reyes in the first round. The performance was not only decisive but also showcased a more aggressive side of Ulberg that fans had been waiting to see. The question now is simple: Has Carlos Ulberg done enough to earn a UFC title shot?
Since his lone UFC loss to Kennedy Nzechukwu in 2021, Ulberg has been on an impressive nine-fight win streak. Along the way, he has defeated several ranked opponents and steadily climbed the Light Heavyweight ladder. Still, his run has not been without criticism. Many of Ulberg’s wins came by decision, with fans labeling his counter-striking style as too patient or even boring at times. His fight against Jan Blachowicz was a prime example, as both men stayed defensive and struggled to find consistent offense. Yet beneath that patience lies precision: Ulberg’s accuracy makes him dangerous, and as he showed in Perth, when he lands cleanly, he can finish fights in spectacular fashion.
This knockout win may be the turning point for Ulberg’s career. Not only did it prove he can deliver excitement against top competition, but it also positioned him as one of the most deserving contenders in the division. A first-round knockout against a respected veteran like Reyes is the type of performance that grabs the UFC’s attention and wins over fans at the same time. Momentum matters in the UFC, and Ulberg now has both skill and timing working in his favor heading into title discussions. The Light Heavyweight title picture, however, is crowded. This weekend, Khalil Rountree meets former champion Jiri Prochazka, and the winner will almost certainly push for a title opportunity as well. Both men carry knockout power and name recognition that could sway the UFC’s decision-makers. Still, Ulberg’s recent streak is fresher, and the way he dismantled Reyes may give him the edge when the promotion looks at who deserves the next shot.
Even so, Ulberg’s case remains strong. No fighter in the division is currently on a better run of form, and if the UFC truly wants the best fighting the best, Ulberg should be next in line. Timing could also work in his favor—if Rountree and Prochazka endure a war, recovery time may delay their availability, leaving Ulberg ready to step in as the fresher contender. With Alex Pereira set to try to regain his title against Magomed Ankalaev, there’s always the possibility that if Pereira wins that he will vacate to pursue Heavyweight gold, further opening the door for Ulberg.
No matter how the division shakes out, Carlos Ulberg has emerged as one of the most intriguing Light Heavyweights on the roster. With his winning streak, newfound knockout momentum, and ability to compete with the elite, it may finally be his moment to fight for UFC gold. The UFC thrives on fighters who can deliver both consistency and excitement, and Ulberg now fits that description. Fans may debate who deserves the next shot, but Ulberg’s resume and recent performances speak loudly. If the promotion is looking for a fresh contender with momentum, Carlos Ulberg is the clear choice.
