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.
Alex Pereira
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.
Magomed Ankalaev
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.
Israel Adesanya
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.
Jiří Procházka
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.
