Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka is reportedly contemplating a significant and potentially historic career decision that could further solidify his place among the sport`s elite.
Earlier this month, the premier mixed martial arts promotion returned to Las Vegas for UFC 320, an event headlined by a highly anticipated light heavyweight title rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira.
The card also featured another crucial 205-pound showdown: Jiri Prochazka against Khalil Rountree Jr., a fight with major title implications. Despite dropping the first two rounds, “The Last Samurai” once again showcased his unparalleled championship resilience. He mounted a spectacular comeback in the third round, securing a blockbuster knockout and earning his second consecutive victory.
Prochazka`s Ambitious Future Career Plans
Following the main event at UFC 320, Prochazka was visibly emotional, seen shedding tears of joy during the Pereira vs. Ankalaev fight. This reaction hinted at his strong desire for a potential trilogy bout against “Poatan.” However, the reigning Brazilian champion, Alex Pereira, has expressed interest in moving up to the heavyweight division, reportedly targeting a “super fight” against Jon Jones at a hypothetical UFC White House event in 2026.
Amidst these developments, Prochazka has opened up about the possibility of competing for a vacant light heavyweight title, potentially against a surging contender currently riding an impressive nine-fight win streak.
Beyond his immediate light heavyweight aspirations, the popular Czech fighter has also confirmed that he is still actively planning a future transition to the middleweight division, an idea he had previously considered after suffering losses to Pereira.
In an exclusive interview, Prochazka articulated his strategic approach: “I told my team that I would only move to middleweight once I have won the (light heavyweight) title. In that scenario, I would then move to middleweight to challenge the champion. But I prefer not to dwell on `what ifs` – `When I win this, I will fight this and do this.` No, right now, I am entirely focused, 100% focused, solely on the (light heavyweight) title. That`s all I can do. Perhaps then, after my next fight,” he elaborated.
Jiri Prochazka`s Potential Matchup Against Reigning Middleweight Champion Khamzat Chimaev
Prochazka is an exceptionally unique fighter, distinguished not only by his distinctive training regimen but also by his unconventional approach to weight cutting – or lack thereof – compared to the majority of his peers. Standing at 6`3″, the Czech fighter would be a physically imposing presence in the middleweight division, undoubtedly posing significant challenges for most opponents.
Currently, the middleweight division is lorded over by Khamzat Chimaev, himself regarded as a sizable middleweight known for his dominant wrestling style. Nevertheless, Prochazka`s unorthodox and potent striking could undoubtedly create serious problems for “Borz,” making a potential clash between these two formidable athletes one of the most thrilling and highly anticipated matchups the UFC could possibly orchestrate.
