Carlos Ulberg will not face Robert Whittaker anytime soon, despite Whittaker’s move to the light heavyweight division. The UFC 329 event on 11 July 2026 highlighted Whittaker’s debut at 205 pounds, but he ruled out a future bout with Ulberg, citing their training partnership at City Kickboxing.
Why did Robert Whittaker reject a fight with Carlos Ulberg?
Whittaker, a former UFC middleweight champion, confirmed he would never fight Ulberg, who claimed the light heavyweight title by knocking out Jiri Prochazka at UFC 327 in April 2026. The two train together at City Kickboxing in Auckland, alongside other UFC stars like Israel Adesanya and Alexander Volkanovski.
Whittaker told Fox Sports Australia, “I’d never fight anyone I train with, or break bread with.” He added that the topic was not even up for discussion, emphasizing his loyalty to teammates over potential title opportunities.
What does this mean for Carlos Ulberg’s title reign?
Ulberg’s victory at UFC 327 solidified his position as the division’s champion. Whittaker’s refusal to fight him removes a high-profile contender from Ulberg’s immediate challenger list. However, Whittaker’s move to light heavyweight still introduces a dangerous new opponent for future title hopefuls.
UFC president Dana White has previously criticized fighters who avoid bouts with training partners. Whittaker’s stance could draw scrutiny, but his focus remains on establishing himself in the division before considering a title shot.
What’s next for Whittaker and Ulberg?
Whittaker faces Nikita Krylov in the co-main event of UFC 329 on 11 July 2026. A win would mark his first step toward contention at 205 pounds. Ulberg, meanwhile, has no immediate title defenses scheduled, leaving his next opponent uncertain.
Whittaker’s decision leaves Ulberg without a marquee fight in the near term. However, the light heavyweight division remains stacked with contenders, ensuring Ulberg’s reign will face challenges—just not from Whittaker.