In a surprising twist to the UFC light heavyweight title scene, reigning champion Magomed Ankalaev may not run it back with Alex Pereira anytime soon. Following his dominant unanimous decision victory over Pereira at UFC 313, which ended the Brazilian's undefeated streak in the division, Ankalaev’s first title defense was widely expected to be a rematch. However, with Pereira currently on hiatus and no clear return date in sight, the UFC is weighing other options—and one rising star is emerging as a top contender.
Alex Pereira’s hiatus clouds rematch hopes with Magomed Ankalaev
After UFC 313, both camps reportedly agreed to a rematch later in the year, building hype around a high-stakes sequel. But with Magomed Pereira’s extended absence, doubts have surfaced regarding the timeline—and even the possibility—of a second showdown. The UFC, known for keeping momentum going in its title divisions, appears ready to pivot if needed.
Carlos Ulberg: The dark horse rising
During a recent episode of the Weighing In podcast, former UFC standout Josh Thomson brought an unexpected name into the spotlight: Carlos Ulberg. Ranked No. 3 in the light heavyweight division, Ulberg has been on a blistering eight-fight win streak, including a recent victory over Jan Blachowicz at UFC London.
“What you have is Jamahal Hill coming off a loss, Jan Blachowicz coming off a loss, Aleksandar Rakic coming off a loss, Khalil Rountree Jr. coming off a loss,” said Thomson. “Dominick Reyes is number eight, he’s got a win. You’ve got Carlos Ulberg, that’s it, at number three. You have Jiri but Jiri can’t fight. I mean, throw, I would say Ulberg, put him in there, see if Magomed Ankalaev will stand with him as well."
With five stoppage victories under his belt and notable wins over Volkan Oezdemir, Alonzo Menifield, and Da-Un Jung, Ulberg’s meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed. A product of Dana White’s Contender Series, a UFC title would cement him alongside other breakout champions like Sean O’Malley and Jack Della Maddalena.
UFC’s quest for excitement
Thomson emphasized that Ulberg could be the “exciting fight” the UFC is looking for to pair with Ankalaev. Known for his calculated and often conservative fighting style, Magomed Ankalaev has faced criticism for lacking fan-friendly flair. A striker like Carlos Ulberg could bring fireworks—and a marketable matchup that fans can rally behind.
As Ankalaev prepares for his first title defense, all eyes are now on the UFC matchmakers. Will they wait for Magomed Pereira, or crown a new blockbuster pairing with Ulberg stepping up to the spotlight?