After Alonzo Menifield choked out Jimmy Crute in their UFC 290 rematch, the atmosphere shifted. He walked back to the locker room, a quieter space, where fellow fighters, including Carlos Ulberg, were waiting. Their brief interaction sparked something. “It was like an unspoken agreement,” Ulberg recalled. They shook hands, and without saying much, knew a future clash was inevitable.
Fast forward, and here we are. The two light heavyweights are gearing up for a showdown this Saturday at UFC on ESPN 56 in St. Louis. Ulberg has been keeping tabs on Menifield, impressed by his rise in the ranks. “I’ve had my eye on him,” Ulberg admitted. Menifield’s power and skill have made him a formidable opponent, but Ulberg sees an opportunity.
As fight night draws near, Ulberg contemplates the potential of a budding rivalry. “This isn’t the last time we’ll cross paths,” he predicted. He respects Menifield’s track record but is ready to prove himself. Both fighters share a vision of climbing the ranks, making this matchup more than just a fight; it’s the beginning of a saga.
Ulberg trains at City Kickboxing in Auckland, a gym known for producing champions. Despite a forced hiatus from competition, he’s stayed sharp and ready. “The gym’s been my second home,” he said, reflecting on the months of preparation. With a fight against Menifield on the horizon, he’s more motivated than ever.
At 33, Ulberg is not slowing down. He’s eyeing the top of the division, knowing a win over Menifield could catapult him into contention. “The light heavyweight division is full of surprises,” he mused. And he’s ready for whatever comes next, aiming for the top.
Despite his recent success, Ulberg remains unranked, a fact that doesn’t faze him. “I’ll let my performances speak for themselves,” he stated confidently. He’s focused on the path ahead, ready to make his mark and shake up the rankings. “Time will tell,” he concluded, eyes firmly on the future.