The light heavyweight division is poised for a major shake-up at UFC 327, as former champion Jiri Prochazka and rising contender Carlos Ulberg will clash for the vacant UFC Light Heavyweight Championship on April 11, 2026, at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida.
The title bout was confirmed late Friday by UFC CEO Dana White on social media following the announcement that former champion Alex Pereira has officially vacated the 205-pound belt as he possibly prepares to move up to the heavyweight division. Pereira’s decision opens the door for a new champion to emerge atop one of the sport’s most exciting weight classes.
Jiri Prochazka, a former light heavyweight champion, returns to the title picture after an impressive 2025 campaign in which he scored back-to-back knockout victories over Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree Jr. The Czech veteran, known for his unorthodox striking and relentless aggression, is seeking to complete a long journey back to the top after relinquishing his belt due to injury and falling short twice against Pereira in title fights.
Across the Octagon, New Zealand’s Carlos Ulberg has surged to the forefront of the division. After a setback in his UFC debut, Ulberg has responded with a remarkable nine-fight winning streak, featuring high-profile victories over former champion Jan Błachowicz and a first-round knockout of Dominick Reyes. The performance-heavy streak has positioned Ulberg as one of the most dangerous contenders in the light heavyweight ranks.
The matchup promises fireworks: both fighters are powerful finishers with a combined history of highlight-reel knockouts and aggressive pacing. For Prochazka, it’s an opportunity to reclaim the title he once held; for Ulberg, it’s a chance to solidify his ascent and bring championship gold to New Zealand’s City Kickboxing camp.
UFC 327’s stacked card also includes a flyweight title bout between champion Joshua Van and challenger Tatsuro Taira, alongside a series of other compelling matchups that round out what is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most anticipated fight nights.
