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Carlos Ulberg Wins UFC Light Heavyweight Title, Surprising Jon Jones
Ulberg overcame an early injury to stop Jiri Prochazka in the first round at UFC 303
Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:37pm
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A stunning upset victory for Carlos Ulberg, who fought through injury to claim the UFC light heavyweight title from Jiri Prochazka.Las Vegas TodayIn a surprising turn of events, Carlos Ulberg defeated Jiri Prochazka to win the vacant UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 303. The victory was even more remarkable given that Ulberg suffered a leg injury early in the fight. Former champion Jon Jones, who was in attendance, looked visibly surprised by the outcome.
Why it matters
Jones held the light heavyweight title for years and never lost it in the Octagon, making Ulberg's victory all the more significant. The division has seen a lot of change since Jones vacated the title in 2020, with seven different fighters holding the 205-pound belt. Ulberg's win extends his own impressive streak to ten straight victories, second only to Jones' divisional record.
The details
Ulberg stopped Prochazka in the first round to claim the vacant UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 303. Despite suffering a leg injury early in the fight, Ulberg was still able to pull off the biggest win of his career. Jones, who was in attendance as a mentor to Gable Steveson, looked surprised to see a new champion crowned in the division he once dominated.
- Ulberg defeated Prochazka at UFC 303 on April 13, 2026.
- Jones vacated the light heavyweight title in 2020 after deciding to move up to heavyweight.
The players
Carlos Ulberg
The new UFC light heavyweight champion, who overcame an early injury to defeat Jiri Prochazka at UFC 303.
Jon Jones
The former long-reigning UFC light heavyweight champion, who was in attendance at UFC 303 as a mentor to Gable Steveson.
Jiri Prochazka
The former UFC light heavyweight title challenger, who was defeated by Carlos Ulberg at UFC 303.
Gable Steveson
The NCAA wrestling champion who is transitioning to MMA and was being mentored by Jon Jones.
What they’re saying
“I was really surprised to see Carlos Ulberg get the job done against Jiri. He showed a lot of heart to fight through that injury.”
— Jon Jones, Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion
What’s next
Ulberg's leg injury could keep him out for the rest of 2026, but he will look to defend his newly won UFC light heavyweight title when he is healthy.
The takeaway
Ulberg's upset victory over Prochazka to claim the UFC light heavyweight title in the presence of former champion Jon Jones is a testament to his resilience and skill. It also highlights the continued evolution of the 205-pound division since Jones' departure, with multiple fighters vying for the prestigious belt.
