Before producing highlight-reel knockouts in the UFC, Carlos Ulberg was making a mark in a very different way. The Kiwi fighter possessed all of the characteristics of a star; athleticism, charm, and an undeniable presence. But fighting was not his only path to fame. In truth, Ulberg was handed the opportunity to become a household name overnight—not inside the Octagon, but on national television. Despite the glamour and attention that came with it, he chose a far tougher path.

While his dedication to fighting was evident, ‘Black Jag’ was not simply grinding away in the gym. To support himself and stay in peak condition, he discovered another stage—one with bright lights, loud music, and a devoted audience. As a male entertainer, he went by the moniker ‘Ladies Night,’ and his innate showmanship took center stage.

“I used to do ladies nights in Australia, [so] I used to travel around Australia and New Zealand doing ladies nights and strip pretty much, that’s how I got my name ‘Ladies Night’.” It’s an unusual road for a future UFC star, but Carlos Ulberg saw it as just another chance to boost his confidence, command a crowd, and keep himself financially stable while pursuing his true passion.

Despite walking away from those days, he remained the center of attention. Ulberg’s remarkable appearance and fighting ability have garnered him fans from all around the world. “You should see my messages,” he said, laughing. “It’s filled with women… and men, yeah, I get them all the time.” But, no matter how attractive the spotlight was, the 34-year-old never let it distract him from his ultimate ambition. When reality TV came calling, he declined without hesitation. “Doing The Bachelor would mean I’d have to put myself out of training for a couple of months,” he told ESPN Australia. That was simply not an option.

Carlos Ulberg left the entertainment industry behind for a career in fight and now he will compete in the Octagon at UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Brady. ‘Ladies Night’ may have been where he started, but ‘Black Jag’ is who he is now. And in a world where showmanship and skill go hand in hand, Carlos Ulberg has always known exactly where he belongs. In fact, if he wins this big fight, he may even get to face Jiri Prochazka for being the next title challenger!

Jiri Prochazka wants to face the winner of Jan Blachowicz vs. Carlos Ulberg

With his showmanship days behind him, Carlos Ulberg is entering a new type of spotlight—one that could propel him closer to UFC gold. A win over former champion Jan Blachowicz at UFC Fight Night 255 would be the biggest of his career, catapulting him into title contention. However, he is not the only one watching this fight with huge stakes in mind. Jiri Prochazka, a former light heavyweight champion, has made it known that he wants the winner.

Originally, Prochazka aimed for a title shot. But, with Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev preparing for a title rematch, he has no desire to sit on the sidelines. “I don’t want to just stay and watch them,” he said. “Maybe I will fight with one of these guys, with the winner from Saturday night.” Prochazka, who thrives on chaos and movement, simply cannot stand still. If ‘Black Jag’ defeats JanBlachowicz, he could face a difficult and unpredictable opponent in Prochazka next.

For the time being, Ulberg can only think about the task at hand. However, the path to the title is already being planned out around him. A victory against Blachowicz will not only demonstrate that ‘Black Jag’ is ready for the top of the division, but it may also signal the beginning of a war with one of the UFC’s most unconventional and relentless fighters. And if ‘The Czech Samurai’ gets his way, Ulberg’s toughest test could still be ahead of him. What do you think? Will ‘Black Jag’ be able to win the fight? Let us know in the comments.