UFC 327: Carlos Ulberg shocks Jiri Prochazka in first round despite injuring knee

The fight began between second-seeded Prochazka and third-seeded Ulberg after former champion Alex Pereira vacated the title to move up to heavyweight.

Having completed 31 of 39 fights, Prochazka is considered one of the UFC’s most exciting fighters and ranks as the favorite for the competition.

Meanwhile, Ulberg, who grew up in foster homes before turning to martial arts after a spell in rugby league, seized the opportunity by knocking out former champion Dominick Reyes in September.

There were chants of “Come on Jiri” in the early stages as Ulberg attacked fan favorite Prochazka with leg kicks.

However, Ulberg soon suffered knee problems after an awkward landing as he fell backwards.

While Prochazka invited Ulberg to stand and exchange blows, the New Zealander ignored the offer.

As Ulberg leaned against the cage, Prochazka stepped in throwing punches but was caught with a left hook.

As the fans stood on their feet in shock and excitement, Ulberg jumped on the fallen Prochazka and smothered punches as the referee stopped the fight.

UFC president Dana White said at the post-fight press conference that the injury may have been to Ulberg’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), while commentator Daniel Cormier said Prochazka would have won if the fight had gone past the first round.

Cormier said, “If he had gone to his corner, this fight would have ended. His knee exploded, he can’t even stand.”

The UFC hopes Ulberg’s injury is not serious; It usually takes longer than nine months for anterior cruciate ligament tears to fully heal following surgery.