UFC Perth: A Night of Triumph and Redemption

Date: September 28, 2025

UFC Perth delivered an electrifying night of mixed martial arts, showcasing local talent and thrilling performances that left fans buzzing. From Carlos Ulberg’s stunning first-round knockout to Jimmy Crute’s inspiring comeback, the event was a testament to the depth and resilience of fighters from Australia and New Zealand.

Ulberg’s Statement Victory

Carlos Ulberg, the No. 3 ranked light heavyweight, entered the octagon under immense pressure. Questions loomed over his title aspirations: Was he too cautious? Did he need to make a more significant impact? Ulberg silenced his critics with a decisive first-round knockout of Dominick Reyes, a former title challenger.

The fight was a masterclass in striking. Ulberg controlled the cage, dictating the pace and landing precise blows that left Reyes unable to respond. The knockout not only showcased Ulberg’s striking prowess but also solidified his position as a serious contender in the light heavyweight division.

As the UFC gears up for the highly anticipated rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira, Ulberg’s performance has positioned him as a frontrunner for a title shot. Sitting cage-side, he made it clear that he intends to be part of the conversation for the next title challenger. With an unbeaten streak and an unyielding confidence, Ulberg’s time may indeed be now.

Crute’s Redemption Arc

Jimmy Crute’s journey has been anything but straightforward. Once heralded as one of the brightest prospects in the UFC, Crute faced setbacks that led him to contemplate retirement. After a series of tough losses, including a notable defeat to Jamahal Hill, Crute took a nearly two-year hiatus from the sport.

During this time, he underwent significant personal transformation, embracing spirituality and finding solace in his faith. His return to the octagon was marked by a draw at UFC 312 and a subsequent submission victory over Marcin Prachino, setting the stage for his co-main event bout against Ivan Erslan in Perth.

In front of a supportive home crowd, Crute displayed his grappling skills, quickly taking Erslan to the mat and relentlessly pursuing a submission. His victory was not just a personal triumph but a celebration of resilience. The joy on Crute’s face as he celebrated with a backflip was a reminder of the passion that drives fighters to overcome adversity.

A Night for Local Fighters

UFC Perth was a showcase of local talent, with 11 Australian and New Zealand fighters stepping into the octagon. Despite the absence of some fighters due to withdrawals, the event featured a remarkable display of skill and determination. Ten local fighters emerged victorious, with only Jake Matthews suffering a controversial defeat.

The event was attended by MMA royalty from the region, including champions like Israel Adesanya and Alexander Volkanovski, who watched as a new generation of fighters made their mark. The card highlighted the depth of talent in the ANZ MMA scene, reintroducing familiar faces while also welcoming emerging stars.

Fighters like Brando Pericic, who secured a first-round knockout, and Michelle Montague, the first Kiwi woman in the UFC, showcased the growing diversity and talent in the sport. Tom Nolan and Navajo Stirling also continued their impressive runs, further solidifying their status as rising prospects.

UFC’s international chief, Dave Shaw, remarked on the significance of the event, stating that it “puts a lot of new names into contention.” This sentiment reflects the ongoing evolution of the sport in the region, as local fighters continue to gain recognition on the global stage.

Conclusion

UFC Perth was more than just a fight card; it was a celebration of resilience, talent, and the spirit of competition. With standout performances from Carlos Ulberg and Jimmy Crute, the event underscored the potential for new champions to emerge from Australia and New Zealand. As the UFC continues to expand its reach, the spotlight on local fighters is brighter than ever, promising an exciting future for the sport in the region.