Alex Poatan could face Adesanya's teammate at UFC 324.

Poatan may face Carlos Ulberg in 2026 by the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

The start of 2026 could take on special significance for Brazilian MMA fans. According to backstage rumors, Alex Poatán emerges as a strong candidate to lead the UFC 324, the first numbered event of the season, in a possible duel against Carlos Ulberg, training partner and long-time ally of Israel adesanyaThe card is scheduled for January 24th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas (USA).

The information was released by journalist Timothy Wheaton, who stated that he had heard internal discussions pointing to the fight as a UFC plan, although there is still no official confirmation.

"It's not confirmed, but I'm hearing rumors that the UFC plans to hold the fight between Alex Pereira and..." Carlos Ulberg at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on January 24th. UFC 324", the journalist posted on his X account (formerly Twitter).

This is not yet confirmed, but I am hearing rumors that the UFC is aiming for Alex Pereira vs. Carlos Ulberg at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas for January 24, UFC 324. pic.twitter.com/qTSGdMYLJB

— Timothy Wheaton MMA (@TimWheatonMMA) November 24, 2025

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This event could mark a new phase for UFC on television.

Beyond its sporting appeal, the UFC 324 This event carries strategic symbolism for the organization. It will be the first numbered fight broadcast on Paramount+, the Ultimate's new partner for the next seven years. The deal, valued at US$7,7 billion (approximately R$41,6 billion), increases the pressure for a high-impact card right from the debut.

In this scenario, place Alex PoatánCurrently the biggest active name in the franchise, his role as the event's protagonist seems a natural move. The Brazilian has established himself as a central figure in the organization, both for his sporting performance and commercial appeal.

Poatan and Ulberg are experiencing different moments in their careers.

Alex Poatán He has a record of 13 wins and three losses in professional MMA. A former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg), the Brazilian regained the light heavyweight title (up to 93 kg) by defeating... Magomed Ankalayev No. UFC 321in October, reinforcing his status as one of the most dominant athletes of today.

On the other side, Carlos Ulberg He has built a solid career in the UFC. The New Zealander has 13 wins and only one loss as a professional. With a strong base in kickboxing, a discipline he practiced professionally between 2016 and 2019, Ulberg definitively transitioned to MMA in 2020, when he defeated Bruno Oliveira in Dana White's Contender Series. In his most recent performance, he knocked out... Dominick reyes at UFC Perth in September.

Superfight with Jon Jones cools down behind the scenes.

The possible confirmation of Poatan vs. Ulberg also helps to cool down, at least for now, the rumors of a super fight between the Brazilian and Jon JonesDespite public interest in both athletes, Dana White has shown little enthusiasm for the fight at this point.

Still, a dominant victory for Poatan in UFC 324 This could reignite speculation, especially considering UFC Casa Branca, a special event planned for June 2026. If recent history is any indication, the Brazilian remains the UFC's main asset for big moments.