Or “legendary Poland The strength “is still in Jan Błachowicz? This question was asked before this fight all Polish fans. Our former lightweight champion was not seen in action since July 2023 (defeat with Alex Pereira). A lot of time, especially for a 42-year-old, there were certainly fear of a battle” rust “. He also had operations of both shoulders at that time. Carlos Ulberg could even give him a fight for the title. ago He became Russian Magomed Ankalaev (21-1-1), with whom the Pole drew in October 2022 by the decision of the judges, and according to many he deserved victory.
A difficult test for both, though pressure on Ulberg
As for Ulberg, he was absolutely not allowed to be underestimated. Fast, strongly beating kickboxer, driven by a series of seven wins in a row. Including four by knockout. He earned a triumph over the former contender for the title of Volkan Oezdemir (20-8) to fight Błachowicz, after a balanced fight. However, if a long break did not cost a Pole too much, he undoubtedly promised to be the most difficult test in the career of a New Zealander.
Tactical battle from beginning to end
He tactically led the first round B³achowicz. He avoided open exchanges, tried to choose moments to attack wisely and, above all, chopped his opponent's legs with his company low kicks. Ulberg answered, with various results, but also did not want to risk it. It looked similar in the second round, although in it a bit more activity and successes were recorded by the New Zealander. There was a little risk on the side of Błachowicz and it seemed that the third round could determine the winning of one or the other.
In it they both still cheated tactically, tried to catch a mistake, but it was not easy. Ulberg circled and bite. Jan was bitten with kicks and single blows. None clearly marked the advantage until the end of the fight. In general, we got such an even clash that the judges could really be felt sorry for the judges.
The nuances decided. Błachowicz returns to the shield
Unfortunately, they unanimously saw two rounds for Ulberg, and only one for Błachowicz. The Pole had a failed return, although it was not a bad fight in his performance. What was missing? Perhaps the rhythm, perhaps this two -year break meant that he was unable to take a chance and hit a New Zealander. Either way, the vision of the championship struggle has moved away and it may be for good. However, it is too early for such courts.