When the lights go down at UFC Perth, all eyes will be on the light heavyweight division’s highly anticipated fight between New Zealand’s Carlos ‘Black Jag’ Ulberg and American striker Dominick ‘The Devastator’ Reyes. Set for September 27, 2025, at the RAC Arena, this matchup is more than just another fight on the card; it represents a watershed moment for both men.

Ulberg is a rising talent wanting to cement his spot among the division’s top, while Reyes is an experienced fighter hoping to remind the world of his championship-caliber abilities. The matchup features an interesting stylistic clash. Ulberg’s striking-heavy approach meets Reyes’ diverse and tactical style. But how do Carlos Ulberg and ‘The Devastator’ look head-to-head ahead of the big night? And who has the better chance of winning? Without further ado, let’s find out!

Carlos Ulberg vs. Dominick Reyes: Height, weight, record, age, and rankings

Carlos Ulberg is a New Zealander who has gained popularity with his striking under the City Kickboxing banner. His overall record is 13-1 according to the UFC(12-1: other sources). Meanwhile, his record within the promotion is 8-1. The 34-year-old is known for his perfect combinations, high output, and ability to maintain distance with footwork and reach. ‘Black Jag,’ who is 6’4″ tall with a 77-inch reach and fights orthodox, is skilled at controlling range while applying constant pressure on opponents. His accomplishments in the Octagon have established him as a rising contender, and defeating a former title challenger like Reyes might propel him into the top five of the light heavyweight rankings.

Meanwhile, Dominick Reyes brings a plethora of expertise to the cage. With a 15-4 career record, including 6-4 in the UFC, ‘The Devastator’ has fought some of the sport’s greatest stars, including Jon Jones and Jan Błachowicz. Notable victories over Chris Weidman and Nikita Krylov prove his superior ability and expertise as a veteran of the sport. The 35-year-old is 6’4″ with a 77-inch reach, but his southpaw stance poses a stylistic issue for ‘Black Jag.’

Both guys meet the official 205-pound limit, but walkaround weights are generally higher, providing more power behind their strikes. Reyes’ experience fighting top-tier opponents offers him a mental advantage in high-pressure situations in the cage, as opposed to Carlos Ulberg’s momentum and high-volume, striking style.

Comparing the striking stats and takedown data of the two fighters

Carlos Ulberg has proven to be a high-volume striker, averaging 6.77 significant strikes per minute with a 55% accuracy, while absorbing 4.21 strikes per minute and defending 52% of incoming shots. Takedowns are less important to his strategy: he lands 0.58 per 15 minutes with 60% accuracy and defends more than 80% of opponents’ attempts. This striking-first strategy allows him to keep fights at a distance and wear down opponents while maintaining control of the pace.

Meanwhile, Dominick Reyes averages 5.58 significant strikes per minute with a 54% accuracy rate, absorbs 3.54 strikes per minute, and defends 50% of all incoming attacks. Although his takedown rate is lesser, with 0.31 per 15 minutes at 28% accuracy, his defense makes up for it by being equally solid. Reyes’ approach combines striking and wrestling, and his previous experience against elite fighters enables him to adjust in real time, capitalizing on openings and defensive lapses.

The comparison reveals an important dynamic: Ulberg’s increased output and accuracy give him a striking advantage, but the 35-year-old’s experience and adaptability make him far from an easy opponent. Both fighters are adept at defending takedowns; thus, the bout will most likely be fought standing, showcasing Ulberg’s speed and Reyes’ inventive counters.

Final Prediction: Who has the edge?

Overall, while Dominick Reyes’ experience and ability to react in high-pressure situations are significant, Carlos Ulberg’s relative youth, volume, and precision offer him an advantage going into UFC Perth. Expect a striking-heavy bout in which ‘Black Jag’ uses his reach and combinations to manage distance, sustain pace, and gradually outpoint the previous title challenger.

‘The Devastator’ is likely to use counters, exploit openings, and use his southpaw stance to create angles, but the New Zealander’s speed and combative attitude make him difficult to stop. With both fighters standing 6’4″ and having the same 77-inch reach, the fight will most likely be decided on activity, accuracy, and tactical execution.

In the end, this should be a fast-paced, technical battle that shows both fighters’ skill sets, but Carlos Ulberg’s output and striking efficiency point to a unanimous decision victory. But whoever may one, one thing that is for sure is that UFC Perth fans are in for a thrilling display of light heavyweight talent, where strategy, power, and precision will collide in the main event.