Carlos Ulberg Next Fight Options After UFC 327, Including Magomed Ankalaev

The main event of UFC 327 resulted in a shocking outcome on Saturday, as Carlos Ulberg took on Jirí Procházka for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title. In the opening round, Ulberg appeared to blow out his right knee and had difficulties standing.

“BJP” was unable to take advantage of the opportunity. Instead, Ulberg capitalized with a big left hook that dropped Procházka, then finished him with strikes on the ground to become the new UFC light heavyweight champion.

It remains unclear how severe Ulberg’s injury is or how long it may delay him from a return to the octagon. However, there are plenty of intriguing matchups in the division. As we await more information on the injury, we consider three possible opponents for “Black Jag” in his first UFC light heavyweight title defense.

Magomed Ankalaev

The native of Dagestan, Russia, held the 205-pound championship title briefly after he defeated then-UFC light heavyweight champion, Alex Pereira, by unanimous decision at UFC 313 in March 2025. However, they met for a rematch at UFC 320 last October, which had a completely different outcome.

Magomed Ankalaev has been clear about his desire for another crack at the belt. A win over another former champion in Ankalaev could be significant to Ulberg’s resume.

Khalil Rountree Jr.

Last October, Khalil Rountree Jr. faced Procházka at UFC 320, which won Fight of the Night. Rountree was in control through two rounds and appeared on his way to a decisive victory. He was then caught with a left hook in the third round, resulting in a knockout loss.

Despite his recent rough stretch, the Los Angeles native remains one of the top names at 205 pounds. Rountree would certainly provide Ulberg with a test to make his case atop the division.

Paulo Costa

“Borrachinha” fought at light heavyweight for just the second time in his career, as he took on Azamat Murzakanov in the co-main event of UFC 327. Paulo Costa outlanded Murzakanov and sealed a TKO victory with a head kick in the third round.

Costa may have more to prove in the division before any talks of a title shot. But based on his last performance, he made a big statement.

By Jimmy Robles

Born and raised in New York City, Jimmy Robles received his journalism degree from Queens College in 2017. Prior ... More about Jimmy Robles