UFC Light Heavyweight Carlos Ulberg Sidelined With Injury
UFC Light Heavyweight Carlos Ulberg Sidelined With Injury...
UFC light heavyweight contender Carlos Ulberg has been forced to withdraw from his upcoming fight due to an undisclosed injury, sparking concern among MMA fans. The New Zealand-born fighter was scheduled to face Alonzo Menifield at UFC Fight Night on May 18 in Las Vegas, but the promotion confirmed his withdrawal late Friday.
Ulberg's injury comes at a critical moment in his career. The 34-year-old City Kickboxing product was riding a five-fight win streak, with his most recent victory coming against Dominick Reyes in March. His absence creates a ripple effect in the 205-pound division, where he was emerging as a potential title challenger.
The news is trending across US sports platforms as UFC prepares for its busy summer schedule. ESPN MMA first reported the injury details, though neither Ulberg nor UFC officials have disclosed the nature or severity of the issue. Fans took to social media to express disappointment, with many noting Ulberg's exciting striking style made him a must-watch fighter.
Menifield will now face replacement opponent Carlos Walker at the UFC Apex facility. The event remains headlined by a featherweight clash between Edson Barboza and Lerone Murphy. UFC matchmakers are reportedly working to reschedule Ulberg for a late summer return pending medical clearance.
This marks the second significant injury withdrawal in UFC's light heavyweight division this month, following Jamahal Hill's exit from UFC 303. The timing is particularly unfortunate for Ulberg, who had climbed to #12 in the official rankings after his knockout of Reyes. Medical experts suggest most UFC injuries require 4-8 weeks recovery, putting Ulberg's return timeline in question.
City Kickboxing head coach Eugene Bareman told reporters in Auckland that Ulberg remains in good spirits despite the setback. The New Zealand-based gym has produced champions like Israel Adesanya and Alexander Volkanovski, with Ulberg seen as their next breakout star. UFC President Dana White has previously praised Ulberg's potential during media appearances.
Sportsbooks immediately adjusted betting lines for future light heavyweight matchups following the news. Ulberg had been listed among betting favorites to challenge champion Alex Pereira later this year. The injury reshuffles the division's contender picture as UFC prepares for its annual International Fight Week in July.
Fans can expect official updates on Ulberg's status during next week's UFC 301 broadcast. The promotion typically announces injury timelines and replacement bouts during pay-per-view events. For now, the focus shifts to Menifield vs. Walker while Ulberg begins his recovery process.
