The main event of UFC 327 had a shocking result on Saturday, as Carlos Ulberg defeated Jiri Prochazka for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title. In the early rounds, Ulberg injured his right knee and began having trouble standing.
“BJP” could not take advantage of the opportunity. Instead, Ulberg took advantage of a big left hook that dropped Prochazka, then finished him off with strikes on the ground and became the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.
It's unclear how serious Ulberg's injury is or how long it might take him to return to the Octagon. However, there are plenty of interesting fights in the division. As we wait for more information regarding the injury, we're looking at three potential opponents in "Black Jag's" first UFC light heavyweight title defense.
Magomed Ankalev
The native of Dagestan, Russia briefly held the 205-pound championship after defeating then-UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira by unanimous decision at UFC 313 in March 2025. However, they met for a rematch last October at UFC 320, which had a completely different outcome.
Magomed Ankalev has been clear about his desire for another crack at the belt. A win over another former champion in Ankalaev could be key to Ulberg's resume.
Khalil Rountree Jr.
Last October, Khalil Rountree Jr. faced Prochazka at UFC 320, winning Fight of the Night. Rountree was in control in round two and looked to be on her 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 tough stretch, the Los Angeles native remains one of the top names at 205 pounds. Rountree will certainly provide Ulberg a test to make his case at the top of the division.
Paulo Costa
"Borrachinha" fought at light heavyweight for only the second time in his career when he faced Azamat Murzakanov in the co-main event of UFC 327. Paulo Costa floored Murzakanov and secured the TKO victory with a head kick in the third round.
Costa has more to prove in the division before there can be any conversation about a title shot. But on the basis of his last performance he has given a big statement.
