Carlos Ulberg doesn’t believe Jiri Prochazka will be getting a rematch anytime soon following their light heavyweight title clash at UFC 327.
Ulberg (14-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) captured the vacant light heavyweight championship with a stunning knockout victory over Prochazka (32-6-1 MMA, 6-3 UFC) in Saturday’s main event. The bout unfolded in chaotic fashion, with Ulberg appearing to suffer a serious right knee injury early in the opening round. As Prochazka pressed forward and looked on the verge of a finish, Ulberg produced a dramatic comeback, delivering one of the most memorable knockouts in recent UFC history to claim the title.
In his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, Prochazka appeared to agree with the suggestion that he may have shown mercy after noticing Ulberg’s compromised leg.
Ulberg, however, dismissed that notion during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show on Monday, accusing Prochazka of playing to the audience and crafting a narrative in hopes of securing a rematch.
“He's just playing for the crowd. People just see those sound bites and believe it. That's playing for the crowd. I'm here to be the best in the world. I'm not here to play for the crowd. I'm here to be the best,” Ulberg said.
When asked whether he had long held that view of Prochazka, Ulberg made it clear his opinion was not formed overnight.
“Years ago. Years ago when we first met. But then also just watching and seeing how he operates. And I know that's not a real fighter, that's just someone who's trying to play to the crowd and wants people to believe a narrative and trying to go with it and win.”
Ulberg also took aim at Prochazka’s post-fight comments, particularly the suggestion that he had acted mercifully in the Octagon.
“When that word 'merciful' was fed into his mouth on that night, after when he had said what he had said, he went with it and played with it, and that was his excuse so that he could hopefully get a rematch. There is no way he gets that rematch,” Ulberg said.
Looking ahead, Ulberg expressed doubt that Prochazka will even remain in title contention, pointing to other top contenders in the division.
“I don't see him getting past Ankalaev. He gets his ass beat from Ankalaev, and I don't see him in that title picture again.”
