Carlos Ulberg continued his winning streak, securing his eighth consecutive victory on Saturday. However, despite his aspirations for a title opportunity, his unanimous decision win against former champion Jan Blachowicz at UFC London suggests he may need more before contending for the gold.
The fight, lasting three rounds, was largely uneventful. Ulberg maintained distance, employing combinations of one and two punches, while Blachowicz persistently pursued him around the octagon, utilizing leg kicks. Though not an action-packed fight, all judges scored it 29-28, awarding Ulberg a unanimous decision victory.
“A very challenging opponent, clearly,” Ulberg acknowledged post-fight. “He is nearing the end of his career but aimed to prove his capabilities. It’s always valuable to share the octagon with him.”
Ulberg emphasized, “Currently holding the longest winning streak in the light heavyweight division, my focus is solely on a title shot. That is my only goal.”
Blachowicz applied consistent forward pressure early on, pushing Ulberg back, though without substantial offense. Ulberg countered effectively, landing a straight right that connected with Blachowicz’s chin, momentarily halting his advance.
Blachowicz regrouped and began to attack with leg kicks, while defending against Ulberg’s swift counter-attacks.
Both fighters appeared cautious, seemingly willing to absorb a strike to land one of their own before retreating. When Ulberg initiated a series of strikes, Blachowicz responded with powerful punches.
Blachowicz seemed content with leg kicks, while Ulberg utilized long jabs, though neither fighter’s attacks were highly impactful.
After a closely contested ten minutes, Ulberg attempted to press forward, but Blachowicz countered with several solid strikes. A strong left hand from Blachowicz snapped Ulberg’s head back, prompting a counter-attack of straight punches from Ulberg.
The fight remained close, with Ulberg showing higher activity, while Blachowicz delivered more powerful strikes. The judges favored Ulberg’s activity, granting him the win. However, it seems Ulberg still has more to prove before a UFC title shot is within reach.
For Blachowicz, this marks his third fight without a win (0-2-1 in his last three), raising questions about the future for the 42-year-old former champion.
