New UFC Champion Carlos Ulberg Misplaces Title Belt During Celebrations
Carlos Ulberg, the newly crowned UFC light heavyweight champion from New Zealand, reported losing his title belt shortly after his victory at UFC 327 in Miami. Ulberg defeated Jiri Prochazka by technical knockout on April 11, 2026, despite fighting through a significant right knee injury. In an interview with Fox Sports Australia, Ulberg admitted that he misplaced the golden belt while celebrating with champagne and shots, suspecting it remains in his apartment or with a friend. Although he expressed confidence that the physical belt would be recovered before his departure for Las Vegas, his championship status faces uncertainty due to his injury. The knee damage is expected to sideline him for approximately one year, necessitating an interim title fight organized by the UFC. Ulberg plans to undergo further medical evaluation in Las Vegas and spend time at the UFC Performance Institute before returning to New Zealand. This incident highlights the chaotic aftermath of his major career achievement, blending personal celebration mishaps with serious professional athletic concerns regarding his long-term health and title retention.
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New UFC Champion Carlos Ulberg Misplaces Title Belt During Celebrations
Carlos Ulberg, the newly crowned UFC light heavyweight champion from New Zealand, reported losing his title belt shortly after his victory at UFC 327 in Miami. Ulberg defeated Jiri Prochazka by technical knockout on April 11, 2026, despite fighting through a significant right knee injury. In an interview with Fox Sports Australia, Ulberg admitted that he misplaced the golden belt while celebrating with champagne and shots, suspecting it remains in his apartment or with a friend. Although he expressed confidence that the physical belt would be recovered before his departure for Las Vegas, his championship status faces uncertainty due to his injury. The knee damage is expected to sideline him for approximately one year, necessitating an interim title fight organized by the UFC. Ulberg plans to undergo further medical evaluation in Las Vegas and spend time at the UFC Performance Institute before returning to New Zealand. This incident highlights the chaotic aftermath of his major career achievement, blending personal celebration mishaps with serious professional athletic concerns regarding his long-term health and title retention.
AP News