Jamahal Hill anticipates that Jan Blachowicz will face significant challenges in taking Carlos Ulberg to the ground when they clash at UFC Fight Night 255.
Former light heavyweight champion Blachowicz, with a record of 29-10-1 in MMA and 12-7-1 in the UFC, is set to face the rising light heavyweight contender Carlos Ulberg (12-1 MMA, 7-1 UFC) in the co-main event this Saturday at The O2 arena.
Blachowicz previously utilized his wrestling skills to defeat Ulberg`s teammate, Israel Adesanya, at UFC 259. In that fight, Blachowicz successfully secured three takedowns, ultimately leading to a unanimous decision victory. However, Hill expresses confidence in Ulberg`s ability to defend against takedowns in this upcoming match.
“I don`t think Jan will simply be able to overpower Ulberg and take him down at will,” Hill stated on his YouTube channel. “I believe Ulberg has dedicated significant effort to improving his ground game and has demonstrated considerable skill in that area. Furthermore, he possesses greater athleticism, youth, and agility.”
“I believe it will be difficult to keep Ulberg grounded, even if Blachowicz manages to take him down. Blachowicz should aim to utilize leg kicks and attempt takedowns to gain a dominant top position. However, Ulberg`s striking game is very versatile and dangerous. Ulberg also has effective body kicks – body kicks could be a key weapon for both fighters.”
Blachowicz is seeking to rebound after a split draw against current UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev and a subsequent split decision loss to former champion Alex Pereira. In contrast, Ulberg is currently on a seven-fight win streak, with five of these victories achieved by finishes.
