Preview: UFC 259 Prelims

Light Heavyweights

NR | Carlos Ulberg (3-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. NR | Kennedy Nzechukwu (7-1, 1-1 UFC)

ODDS: Ulberg (-245), Nzechukwu (+205)

Ulberg is an interesting talent, and he has the potential to be another star from Down Under if everything clicks into place. A renaissance man who has dabbled in rugby and modeling before settling on a combat sports career, his Dana White’s Contender Series bout in November came nearly two years after his prior regional appearance. In the interim, “Black Jag” had cut down from heavyweight to ply his trade as a light heavyweight kickboxer, and it paid out in spades. While his 2018 win over John Martin Fraser was a cautious and unimpressive affair, Ulberg looked sharp and powerful while quickly knocking out Bruno Oliveira to earn a UFC contract. For his first test inside the UFC, Ulberg draws a fellow DWCS alum in Nzechukwu, who also has plenty of potential whenever he finally turns the corner. Nzechukwu is a frustrating fighter given the tools he has at his disposal; his massive frame, in particular, has been a giant advantage that has served him well thus far. He is still a raw talent and often has a disappointing lack of aggression in his approach. He can normally handle what is in front of him, but even when Nzechukwu finds his way to a one-sided win, the whole package tends to leave one wanting more. It has been roughly a year and a half since Nzechukwu’s last fight, so it will be interesting to see if he has made significant strides in the gym. If he has, there is the chance he can cause some real damage. However, Ulberg has proven to be the much sharper striker and much more willing to press the issue, and his kicking game should neutralize Nzechukwu’s size advantage. The pick is Ulberg via second-round knockout.

Continue Reading » Brady vs. Matthews