Jan Blachowicz is making a strong case to the UFC leadership not to rush into scheduling Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira 2 as the next light heavyweight title bout until after UFC Fight Night 255.
The former 205-pound champion (29-10-1 MMA, 12-7-1 UFC) is set to end a lengthy hiatus this Saturday as he faces rising contender Carlos Ulberg in the co-main event at The O2 in London (ESPN+). The outcome of this fight carries significant implications for the upper echelon of the division.
Initially, there was speculation that the winner could be in line for a title shot. However, the landscape changed when Ankalaev claimed the belt from Pereira at UFC 313 earlier this month. Despite UFC CEO Dana White suggesting an immediate rematch and Ankalaev himself advocating for it, Blachowicz has his own aspirations for a rematch.
Following his split draw with Ankalaev in a vacant title bout at UFC 282 in December 2022, Blachowicz is determined to reshape the narrative with a commanding performance.
“I’m focused on changing the course of things this Saturday. After I defeat Ulberg, I intend to prove that I deserve the next shot at the title,” Blachowicz affirmed.
Despite not competing since July 2023 and undergoing extensive recovery from a career-threatening shoulder surgery, Blachowicz feels healthy and confident in his readiness to resume his career trajectory.
Blachowicz, at 42 years old, views Ulberg (10-1 MMA, 7-1 UFC) as a well-suited matchup for his return. The City Kickboxing standout enters the fight on a seven-fight winning streak in the division, aiming to elevate his career to new heights.
Reflecting on the upcoming bout, Blachowicz drew parallels to his monumental victory over Israel Adesanya in March 2021, handing the then-undefeated fighter his first MMA loss. Ulberg hails from the same camp, but Blachowicz is optimistic about replicating his success.
“My team and I have prepared meticulously. Every fight is unique, so we’ve tailored a solid plan. While Ulberg poses a different challenge compared to Adesanya, I’m confident in our strategy,” Blachowicz explained. “I’m determined to deliver a knockout performance.”
As Blachowicz gears up for his return to the octagon, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of reclaiming championship glory, setting the stage for an intriguing showdown against Ulberg in London.
