Streaking light heavyweight Calos Ulberg wasn’t fighting Jamahal Hill on Saturday, but rather former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir on the UFC Macau main card.
Ulberg, winner of six straight, had been matched up against ex-champ Hill at UFC 303. Injury saw that fall through, and he instead was given Oezdemir, winner of his last two fights.
Oezdemir is known for his impressive one-punch power and after knocking out Johnny Walker in June, is making another push towards the top of the division. Fight fans expected fireworks from these aggressive strikers, and that’s exactly what they got.
Oezdemir pressured forward early looking to land powerful hooks on the inside. Ulberg threw a swift head kick that was blocked, but got Oezdemir’s attention. Oezdemir continued to push forward backing Ulberg up against the fence. Both fighters exchanged heavy blows against the cage, as Oezemir backed up in respect for Ulberg’s power. In the final ten seconds, Ulberg threw a three punch combination to the body followed by a head kick, that may have swung the opening round in his favor.
To start the second, each competitor exchanged leg kicks while measuring distance. Ulberg found a home for his jab, utilizing his two inch reach advantage midway through the round. Oezdemir started to lead blood from his nose after repeatedly getting hit with the jab of Ulberg. The toughness of Oezdemir was on display in round two as he continued to march forward against the younger and faster rising prospect.
Oezdemir came out extremely aggressive in round three looking for a knockout finish. Ulberg utilized his quickness and circled away from the powerful punches coming his way. Ulberg threw a three-punch combo that landed on Oezdemir, as it looked like the perennial contender was slowing down. Ulberg again found success with his jab and Oezdemir shot for a desperation takedown with a minute left in the third. After 15 hard fought minutes all three judges scored the fight in favor of Ulberg, with scores of 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28.
Currently the tenth ranked fighter in the division, “The Black Jag” will find himself knocking on the door of the top five. Especially with seven straight wins under his belt.
Official Result: Carlos Ulberg def. Volkan Oezdemir by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
