Carlos Ulberg extended his winning streak to eight fights on Saturday, but his aspirations for a title shot in the light heavyweight division might require further proving after his unanimous decision win against former champion Jan Blachowicz at UFC London.
The co-main event bout lasted three rounds and was largely uneventful. Ulberg maintained distance, utilizing combinations of punches, while Blachowicz pursued him around the octagon, focusing on leg kicks. Despite not being an action-packed fight, all judges scored the contest 29-28 in favor of Ulberg.
“He`s a very tough opponent, clearly,” Ulberg acknowledged post-fight. “He’s nearing the end of his career but still determined to make a statement. It’s always valuable to share the octagon with him.”
Ulberg emphasized his ambition, stating, “I have the longest active win streak in the light heavyweight division. A title shot is the only thing I`m focused on. That`s my only goal.”
Blachowicz applied consistent pressure early on, pushing Ulberg back, though without generating significant offense. Ulberg countered effectively with a strong straight right hand that connected with Blachowicz`s chin, momentarily halting his advance.
Blachowicz regrouped and began employing leg kicks while defending against Ulberg`s swift attacks.
Both fighters appeared cautious, with each seemingly willing to absorb a strike to land their own before retreating. When Ulberg initiated a series of strikes, Blachowicz responded with powerful punches.
Blachowicz continued to utilize leg kicks, while Ulberg used long jabs, though neither fighter landed many impactful blows.
After a closely contested first ten minutes, Ulberg attempted to pressure Blachowicz, but the experienced Polish fighter landed several effective counter 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 displaying greater activity, while Blachowicz landed with more power. The judges favored Ulberg`s activity, awarding him the victory, but it remains uncertain if this win is sufficient to secure a title shot.
For Blachowicz, this defeat marks his third consecutive fight without a win (0-2-1), raising questions about the future for the 42-year-old former champion.
