Carlos Ulberg Dominates Dominick Reyes in First-Round Stoppage at UFC Fight Night in Perth
In a stunning display of skill and power, New Zealand’s Carlos Ulberg secured a decisive victory over former light heavyweight title challenger Dominick Reyes at UFC Fight Night in Perth, Australia, on Saturday night. The bout ended in the first round at 4:27, marking Ulberg’s ninth consecutive win in the UFC and solidifying his position as a rising star in the light heavyweight division.
A Quick and Powerful Performance
Ulberg (13-1 MMA) wasted no time in asserting his dominance over Reyes (15-4 MMA), who was looking to bounce back after a recent loss. From the opening bell, Ulberg showcased his striking prowess, effectively neutralizing Reyes’ attempts to mount an offense. The fight took a pivotal turn when Ulberg landed a straight left that visibly stunned Reyes. Sensing an opportunity, Ulberg unleashed a powerful right hook that sent Reyes crashing to the canvas, prompting the referee to stop the fight.
“My goal with [Dominick] Reyes was to box him, and he felt the power early,” Ulberg explained post-fight. “I saw in his eyes that he didn’t want to feel that again, so the next opportunity I went with the two and dropped him.”
Implications for the Light Heavyweight Division
Ulberg’s emphatic victory not only extends his winning streak but also positions him as a serious contender for the light heavyweight title. Following the fight, he made his intentions clear: “I’m coming for the belt.” His next target appears to be the upcoming title fight rematch between Russian Magomed Ankalaev and former champion Alex Pereira, scheduled for UFC 320 in Las Vegas. This matchup will be crucial for the division, as both fighters have shown exceptional skill and resilience.
Reyes’ Setback and Future Prospects
For Reyes, the loss marks a significant setback, snapping his three-fight winning streak. This defeat is particularly poignant as it is his first KO/TKO loss since November 2022, when he faced Ryan Spann. Reyes has been a prominent figure in the light heavyweight division, known for his striking and grappling abilities. However, this latest performance raises questions about his future trajectory in the sport.
Co-Main Event Highlights
The co-main event featured Australian fighter Jimmy Crute (14-4-2), who secured a victory over Croatia’s Ivan Erslan (14-6) via rear-naked choke in the first round. This win marks Crute’s second consecutive victory, showcasing his grappling skills and resilience. Erslan, on the other hand, remains winless in the UFC, having lost all three of his appearances in the organization.
Other Notable Fights
The event also showcased several other exciting matchups. Featherweight Jack Jenkins (14-4) demonstrated his striking volume and forward movement to defeat Ramon Taveras (10-4) by unanimous decision, with judges scoring the bout 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28. Jenkins has now won five of his last seven fights, while Taveras continues to struggle, having lost three of his last five bouts.
In the welterweight division, veteran Neil Magny (31-14) continued his impressive run by submitting Australian fan favorite Jake Matthews (22-8) with a d’arce choke in the third round. Magny’s ability to withstand an early onslaught from Matthews and rally for the win highlights his experience and tenacity in the octagon.
The Future of the Light Heavyweight Division
As the light heavyweight division continues to evolve, Ulberg’s performance serves as a reminder of the emerging talent within the ranks. With established fighters like Ankalaev and Pereira vying for the title, the competition is fierce. Ulberg’s victory over Reyes not only enhances his reputation but also sets the stage for potential high-stakes matchups in the near future.
Conclusion
Carlos Ulberg’s first-round stoppage of Dominick Reyes at UFC Fight Night in Perth is a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his striking ability and determination. As he sets his sights on the light heavyweight title, the division is poised for exciting developments. Meanwhile, Reyes faces a critical juncture in his career, needing to reassess and regroup after this setback. The landscape of the UFC light heavyweight division is ever-changing, and fans can expect thrilling matchups as fighters continue to battle for supremacy.
