UFC light heavyweights Jan Blachowicz and Carlos Ulberg were both chasing the new king of 205, and hoped a victory over the other would get them a title shot following UFC London on Saturday.
Blachowicz (29-10-1) the former light heavyweight champion, took a few months off following a loss to former champ Alex Pereira at UFC 291. He’s had a scrap with the new champion, Magomed Ankalaev, before but that bout went to a draw. An impressive with over Ulberg could put him back on the short list of contenders.
Ulberg (11-1) suffered his first UFC loss at UFC 259, but since then has rattled off 7 straight victories. Adding a former champion like Blachowicz to his resume would certainly make it tough to deny him a title shot.
Round 1 Blachowicz came out very patient putting the pressure on Ulberg early and using his jab and footwork to keep him there. Ulberg was slick with leg kicks and then hooks up top, but stayed working on the outside for most of the round.
The round was largely a feel-out round for both fighters as they looked to see what their opponents reactions would be. Blachowicz did well landing leg kicks, but Ulberg did check quite a few of them.
Round 2 Blachowicz came out a bit more aggressive putting a pace on Ulberg and mixing his strikes up some more. Ulberg stayed on plan with his kicks until Blachowicz decided to get in closer. Ulberg put his foot on the gas and started walking forward, still landing kicks, but no longer working exclusively off the back foot.
Ulberg put the pressure on his opponent about halfway through the round landing left hands and leg kicks, but Blachowicz wasn’t about to let him lead the dance. He got back on his game putting Ulberg on the outside.
Round 3 Ulberg shot in for a takedown, which was surprising, but Blachowicz easily stuffed it. Blachowicz did well to avoid Ulberg’s big shots early in the round. It really did feel like a tough sparring session half way through the last round.
Round ended with both men throwing heavy shots as the clock ran out. The fight went to the judges.
Official Result: Carlos Ulberg def. Jan Blachowicz via Unanimous Decision (29-28×3)
