New UFC Champ Ulberg Loses Title Belt After Drunken Night

Newly crowned light heavyweight champion misplaces championship belt after celebrating victory with teammates in Miami.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 3:22pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes conveying the frenetic energy of a UFC fighter celebrating their championship win.The celebratory chaos of a new UFC champion's victory party, where the hard-earned title belt mysteriously vanishes.Today in Miami

Newly crowned UFC light heavyweight champion Carlos Ulberg has already lost his title belt, admitting he misplaced it after a night of heavy drinking and celebrating with teammates in Miami following his championship victory at UFC 327.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges some athletes face in responsibly handling the trappings of a championship title, especially in the immediate aftermath of a big win. It also raises questions about security protocols for protecting championship belts and the personal accountability of fighters.

The details

Ulberg told Fox Sports Australia that after winning the vacant light heavyweight title by defeating former champion Jiri Prochazka, he initially planned not to drink. But the celebration quickly spiraled, with Ulberg doing shots and partying late into the night at a Miami nightclub and then an apartment with his teammates. Ulberg said he didn't want to be carrying the belt around, so he thinks he left it behind at the apartment, where one of his friends may have it in bed with them.

  • Ulberg defeated Prochazka to win the vacant UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 327 in Miami on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Ulberg misplaced the championship belt the following Monday, April 14, 2026.

The players

Carlos Ulberg

The newly crowned UFC light heavyweight champion who misplaced his title belt after a night of heavy drinking and celebrating in Miami.

Jiri Prochazka

The former UFC light heavyweight champion who Ulberg defeated to win the vacant title at UFC 327.

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What they’re saying

“I've lost the belt, bro. I don't know exactly where it is. Initially after winning, the plan was to not have a drink. But you know how these things go, right? First, someone gives you a champagne to celebrate. Then one thing leads to another and you're doing shots.”

— Carlos Ulberg, UFC Light Heavyweight Champion

What’s next

UFC officials are working with Ulberg to locate the missing championship belt. The promotion has strict protocols in place for securing and transporting title belts, so this incident will likely lead to a review of those procedures.

The takeaway

This story serves as a cautionary tale for newly crowned champions to responsibly celebrate their victories and take proper care of their hard-earned championship belts. It also highlights the need for tighter security measures around title belts to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.