Carlos Ulberg achieved the biggest moment of his career on April 11, capturing the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship in Miami, Florida.
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It was a lifelong dream realized for the New Zealander.
But within hours of his victory, the newly crowned champion had already lost the belt.
According to Ulberg, the celebrations that followed his title win quickly got out of hand. The championship belt has not been seen since.
UFC Champion Carlos Ulberg Loses Belt After Wild Celebration
Ulberg revealed that he went out in Miami with a "big group of boys" after the fight, despite suffering a knee injury during the bout.
Instead of heading to the hospital, he chose to celebrate, a decision that led to an unexpected outcome.
Speaking to Fox Sports Australia, the 35-year-old opened up about the chaotic night.
"I've lost the belt, bro," Ulberg said. "Ah, I don't know exactly where it is. Initially after winning, the plan was to not have a drink. But you know how these things go, right?"
"First, someone gives you a champagne to celebrate. Then one thing leads to another and you're doing shots."
Ulberg explained that the celebrations began at a nightclub before continuing at a friend's apartment.
"I didn't want to be carrying the belt around so I think it's still there at the apartment somewhere. One of the boys probably has it in bed with him," he added.
Injury Concerns Follow Championship Win
While the celebrations made headlines, Ulberg's victory itself came under difficult circumstances.
In what was his 15th professional MMA fight, he suffered a "serious knee injury" early in the bout.
He went down multiple times but recovered to land a decisive left hook on Ji?í Procházka late in the opening round.
Ulberg followed up as his opponent hit the canvas, securing a knockout victory and the championship.
There are now concerns that the injury could be significant, with reports suggesting he may have suffered a ruptured ACL, which could sideline him for up to a year.
"I haven't actually been to the hospital yet," the champion admitted following the fight.
Ulberg now holds a 14-1 MMA record and has competed in the UFC since 2021, following his appearance on Dana White's Contender Series in 2020.
He also owns a 19-2 record in professional kickboxing and previously recorded a win in his lone professional boxing bout in 2015.
