MACAU, CHINA – NOVEMBER 23: Carlos Ulberg of New Zealand defeats Volkan Ezdemir of Switzerland in a light heavyweight bout during the UFC Fight Night event on November 23, 2024 at Galaxy Arena in Macau, China. hit (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)
Light heavyweight powerhouse Karos Ulberg did not fight Jamahal Hill on Saturday, instead fighting former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir on the main card of UFC Macau.
Wolberg, who is on a six-fight winning streak, was scheduled to face former champion Hill at UFC 303, but the bout was canceled due to injury and he will instead face Oezdemir, the winner of his previous two fights.
Oezdemir is known for his incredible one-punch power and has continued to move towards the top of the division after knocking out Johnny Walker in June. Martial arts fans were expecting fireworks from these aggressive strikers, and that’s exactly what they expected.
Oezdemir applied pressure forward from the start, trying to land powerful hooks on the inside. Ulberg threw a quick head kick that was blocked, but drew Oezdemir’s attention. Oezdemir continued to move forward with Ulberg backed against the fence. Ozemiru stepped back in deference to Wolberg’s power, and both men traded heavy blows against the cage. In the final 10 seconds, Ullberg landed a three-punch combination to the body followed by a head kick. This may have swayed the opening round to their advantage.
To begin the second run, each athlete exchanges leg kicks while measuring the distance. Ullberg used his 2-inch reach advantage to find a home for his jab midway through the round. Oezdemir began bleeding from his nose after receiving repeated jabs from Ullberg. Oezdemir’s toughness was on display in the second round, as he continued to advance against young, fast-growing prospects.
Oezdemir came out very aggressive in the third round, looking for a knockout finish. Ullberg used his quickness to avoid the powerful punches that were coming his way. Ullberg landed a three-punch combo on Oezdemir just when it looked like the perennial title favorite was slowing down. Ulberg again found success with his jab, and with a minute left in the third, Oezdemir went for a decisive takedown. After a heated 15-minute battle, all three judges scored the fight 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28 in Ullberg’s favor.
Currently ranked 10th in the division, “The Black Jug” will be knocking on the door of the top five. Especially with seven consecutive wins.
Official result: Carlos Ulberg def. Volkan Oezdemir unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
