Jan Blachowicz Doubts Ankalaev’s Chances Against Pereira

Jan Blachowicz Eyes Return to the Octagon

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz is finally set for his comeback after nearly two years on the sidelines. The Polish fighter will face rising contender Carlos Ulberg at UFC Fight Night 254 in London on March 23, 2025. The bout marks Blachowicz’s long-awaited return following injuries that have kept him out of action since July 2023.

Speaking in an interview with Home of Fight, Blachowicz expressed his excitement about stepping back into the octagon:

“I am excited, you know. Finally, finally I have a fight. Finally, I get to come back to the octagon. I am happy and I am looking forward to it.”

For Blachowicz, this fight is more than just another bout—it’s an opportunity to reassert himself as a contender in the competitive light heavyweight division.

Carlos Ulberg: A Rising Star to Watch

Carlos Ulberg, Blachowicz’s opponent, is a fast-rising prospect from New Zealand and a teammate of Israel Adesanya at City Kickboxing. Ulberg enters the fight with a seven-fight win streak, including impressive performances that have showcased his powerful striking and evolving skillset.

While Ulberg has looked dominant, Blachowicz believes his experience and grit will make the difference when they meet in London. The Polish veteran, who has fought elite opponents like Glover Teixeira and Alex Pereira, sees Ulberg as a worthy but untested challenger.

“He has potential, sure, but I’ve been here longer, fought tougher guys. Let’s see if he’s ready for this level.”

Blachowicz’s focus will be on proving he still belongs among the division’s elite while ending Ulberg’s momentum.

Blachowicz on Ankalaev vs. Pereira

In addition to his comeback, Blachowicz shared his thoughts on a potential matchup between Magomed Ankalaev and the reigning light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. Blachowicz has personal experience with both fighters, having gone the distance with Pereira in a competitive fight and facing Ankalaev in a controversial draw in December 2022.

While Ankalaev is seen as a threat to Pereira’s throne due to his grappling-heavy style, Blachowicz remains unconvinced:

“He is a good fighter but it is not enough against Pereira.”

Blachowicz elaborated on Ankalaev’s lackluster performance against Aleksandar Rakic, where fans and critics alike criticized the fight’s slow pace:

“Before the fight with Rakic, people said we’d see a new Ankalaev. But the fight was very boring—I almost fell asleep,” he said with a laugh.

Blachowicz believes Pereira’s striking power and aggressive style would overwhelm Ankalaev’s measured approach.

Can Pereira’s Dominance Be Stopped?

Since claiming the light heavyweight title, Alex Pereira has been on a tear. The Brazilian knockout artist has successfully defended his title three times in 2024, silencing critics who doubted his abilities in the heavier division. Pereira’s devastating power and kickboxing experience have made him one of the most feared fighters in the UFC.

Ankalaev, on the other hand, has built a reputation as a durable and methodical grappler. His wrestling could theoretically pose problems for Pereira, but Blachowicz remains skeptical. He argues that Pereira’s ability to handle pressure and land fight-ending shots makes him the division’s most dangerous fighter.

For now, the question of who can dethrone Pereira remains unanswered.

Blachowicz’s Road Back to Contention

As Blachowicz prepares for his clash with Carlos Ulberg, he’s focused on regaining his form and proving that he still belongs at the top. After injuries and setbacks, a dominant victory over Ulberg could catapult him back into the title conversation.

Fans will be watching closely on March 23 to see if Blachowicz can reestablish himself as a top contender or if Ulberg will seize his moment to shine.

For the latest updates on this fight and more MMA news, visit MMAnytt.se

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