Ulberg Knocks Out Reyes: Demonstration of Power and UFC Title Pursuit

Carlos Ulberg left an indelible mark on the UFC, knocking out Dominick Reyes, ranked seventh in the light heavyweight division, in the first round during UFC Fight Night in Perth. Ulberg, currently in third place, extends his undefeated streak to nine fights since February 2022. The City Kick Boxing fighter has solidified his position as the next contender in the division, preparing for next week’s UFC 320 title fight between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira. Ulberg, who started as the favorite against Reyes, demonstrated his superiority from the beginning of the fight. He controlled the pace, preventing Reyes from landing significant blows. A left hook seemed to wobble Reyes, but Ulberg kept the pressure on. With less than a minute left in the round, Ulberg seized the opportunity. A left hand struck Reyes, destabilizing him, and a powerful right hook sent him to the canvas, ending the fight.

My goal with Reyes was to box him, he felt the power from the beginning, and I saw in his eyes that he didn’t want to feel that again, so on the next opportunity I went with two punches and knocked him down.

Ulberg

The New Zealand fighter celebrated with the Perth fans, before turning his attention to next week’s title fight.

I’m going to Las Vegas. I’ll be in the cage. … I’m on my way.

Ulberg

Ulberg also confirmed that he requested to be the official alternate for the UFC 320 main event. “I’m here to break records, this is what I want to do. I don’t think anyone has fought and the following week fought for the title. And that’s what I envision. If they can make me the alternate, it would be incredible,” he stated. In other featured fights on the card, Tom Nolan secured a submission victory over Charlie Campbell, Jack Jenkins secured a decision victory over Ramon Taveras. Neil Magny staged an impressive comeback in the third round to defeat Jake Matthews by submission, and Jimmy Crute continued his resurgence in the light heavyweight division by submitting Ivan Erslan. Of the 11 Australian and New Zealand fighters on the card, 10 were victorious.