UFC 320: Carlos Ulberg open to winner of Jiri Prochazka v Khalil Rountree jnr if needed to cement title shot

Carlos Ulberg beat Dominick Reyes by first-round knockout in Perth. Photo / Getty Images

Carlos Ulberg has his sights firmly set on the UFC light heavyweight title, but if he has to prove his case once more, so be it.

After a first-round knockout win over Dominick Reyes in Perth last week, the Kiwi appeared to have put himself at the front of the queue, as he holds the longest winning streak in the division (9) as well as the No 3 ranking.

With Magomed Ankalaev putting the title on the line against former champion Alex Pereira in Las Vegas at UFC 320 today, Ulberg flew over and offered to be the back-up fighter in case one was needed.

But another top-tier bout in the division is also on the card, with former champion and No 2-ranked Jiri Prochazka taking on former title challenger and No 4-ranked Khalil Rountree jnr. With an emphatic win, either of those fighters would provide the UFC with options for who gets the title shot next.

While Ulberg is adamant he wants his shot at the belt next, he told the Herald he was open to a No 1 contender’s bout against either Prochazka or Rountree if it came down to it.

“Of course, I want that title shot. But if I have to, I’ll take out the winner of Khalil and Jiri just to prove a point and leave no doubt,” Ulberg said.

“We can run that fight as soon as possible. I’m the new man on the block, riding a nine-fight win streak in the UFC, fresh off a historic win last week. I’ll beat anyone they put in front of me.”

Ulberg, 34, is the only athlete ranked inside the top six in the UFC’s light heavyweight division who is yet to fight for the title.

His last three wins have all been against former title holders or challengers, while his win over Reyes showed his ability to finish fights at the top end of the division.

Speaking to UFC on Sky earlier this week through a translator, Ankalaev said he would welcome a meeting with Ulberg as his next assignment, should he get the better of Pereira for a second time this afternoon.

“He’s fresh blood in the division ... I would love to put him to sleep.”

Christopher Reive joined the Herald sports team in 2017, bringing the same versatility to his coverage as he does to his sports viewing habits.