Fighting on one leg after suffering an apparent torn knee, Ulberg achieved one of the greatest results you’ll ever see, knocking out Jiri Prochazka with a Hail Mary punch to capture the vacant UFC light heavyweight title in the most improbable way imaginable.
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In terms of comeback performances where a fighter snatches victory from the jaws of defeat, few in UFC history can match what Ulberg just accomplished against a former champion like Prochazka, who has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most dangerous strikers in the division.
“I tore my knee, but I never, ever ruled myself out,” Ulberg said in the cage after his victory. “I knew all I needed was that one chance and I ended up getting it.
“I have to fix this knee, but I’m a world champion.”
The abrupt outcome stunned not only Prochazka, but countless fighters on the UFC roster, many of whom praised Ulberg’s work (and Prochazka’s failure to capitalize) as a lesson in why it’s never wise to let off the gas in a high-level fistfight.
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“You can learn things through direct or indirect experience,” tweeted bantamweight contender Aiemann Zahabi, who fights Sean O’Malley on the upcoming UFC White House card. “Tonight, every fighter on the roster learned the same lesson.”
See more reactions to Ulberg’s incredible victory below.
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