Jan Blachowicz is eager to move past his challenging years of 2023 and 2024, which included a split decision loss and shoulder surgeries, as he prepares for a comeback fight against Carlos Ulberg in March 2025, driven by the desire for a rematch with Alex Pereira or Magomed Ankalaev.
Jan Blachowicz is eager to leave 2023 and 2024 behind as he looks forward to a fresh start in the New Year. His only fight in 2023 ended in a frustrating split decision loss to Alex Pereira, who later claimed the UFC light heavyweight title.
Blachowicz was slated for a rematch with Aleksandar Rakic in 2024, but double-shoulder surgery sidelined him for the entire year. “Rehabilitation was brutal,” he confessed to MMA Fighting. “I almost cried during physical therapy.”
After six grueling months, Blachowicz finally felt his shoulder improving. “I needed just a few more weeks, and they started working better than before surgery,” he said, relieved.
The surgery wasn’t for one specific injury but to address years of wear and tear. At 41, this layoff was his longest and most challenging.
Despite the setback, Blachowicz knew surgery was essential as his strength waned due to his damaged shoulders. Now, he’s feeling rejuvenated and ready to return stronger than ever.
“My shoulders are perfect now,” Blachowicz stated confidently. “Not like five years ago, but much better than before surgery.”
Blachowicz is set to make his comeback at UFC London in March against rising star Carlos Ulberg. Aiming for another title shot, he’s determined to prove himself after two disappointing results.
He recalls his razor-close split draw with Magomed Ankalaev in 2022 and the controversial loss to Pereira. “I should have won both fights,” he insists.
Blachowicz wants to remind everyone of his toughness. “People forget I beat Pereira; the referee helped him win,” he argues.
Watching Pereira’s meteoric rise with three title defenses has fueled Blachowicz’s desire for a rematch. “No jealousy here, but I want that rematch more than anything,” he admits.
Pereira vs. Ankalaev seems likely for early 2025, yet Blachowicz is focused on Ulberg first. He doesn’t mind who holds the title; he has scores to settle with either fighter.
“If Pereira wins, great—I deserve that rematch,” Blachowicz says. “If Ankalaev wins, we have unfinished business too.”
Blachowicz leans towards Pereira retaining the title if Ankalaev fights as he did against Rakic at UFC 310. “Ankalaev will lose if he fights like that,” Blachowicz predicts.
In his view, Ankalaev’s last performance lacked excitement. “I almost fell asleep watching it,” Blachowicz quips with a chuckle.