On Saturday in Perth, Australia, fast-rising UFC light heavyweight Carlos Ulberg stamped his place as a top contender for whoever is holding the title after UFC 320. However, fight booking is a complicated undertaking, and there is no guarantee the New Zealand native will be next in line.
With that in mind, let's take a look at four next fight options for "Black Jag," including a shot at gold early in 2026.
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The fight fans and UFC executives are likely hoping for is a matchup between Ulberg and former light heavyweight king Alex Pereira . One of the division's best up-and-coming strikers taking on, arguably, the best fighter on the feet 205 pounds has ever seen is an easy sell. However, the Brazilian is a sizable underdog for his UFC 320 rematch with Magomed Ankalaev this weekend. If he can get passed the Russian, a fight with Ulberg is likely in the first quarter of 2026.
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Ankalaev has been an unstoppable force at light heavyweight since 2019. He has not lost in his last 14 fights, and there is a very good chance he moves that streak to 15 at UFC 320. With Carlos Ulberg having such a strong case to get a title fight next, it seems inevitable that the Kiwi is Ankalaev's next opponent with a victory.
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Title fights are never guaranteed, even if they are well-deserved. Pereira and Ankalaev may engage in a classic brawl that is fight of the year, and a trilogy bout gets fast-tracked by the company. Leaving Ulberg in limbo. If he doesn't want to wait, there are some intriguing options. One outside-the-box idea could be a battle for New Zealand with middleweight legend Israel Adesanya .
The 36-year-old is not ready to retire. A move up to 205 pounds and an instant title eliminator with a top contender would be intriguing. Especially if it headlines a huge event in New Zealand, the home nation of both fighters. It would be a fascinating clash of generations for a shot at gold.
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Former UFC light heavyweight king Jiri Prochazka faces Khalil Rountree Jr. in a highly anticipated clash at UFC 320 this weekend. Another destructive win would bolster "BJP's" case for a title fight as well. Especially if Ankalaev retains. If Ulberg can't get a championship fight after UFC Perth, a title eliminator with Prochazka will be one of the top must-see fights of 2026 if it doesn't happen before the end of the year.
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