Jiri Prochazka is setting his sights on a return to the Octagon in the upcoming autumn.
Prochazka’s bid for a third light heavyweight title reign was cut short in a disappointing first-round knockout loss to Carlos Ulberg at UFC 327. Despite Ulberg sustaining a knee injury early in the bout, Prochazka was unable to capitalize, ultimately being caught by a powerful left hand that led to the fight’s stoppage.
The former 205-pound champion has acknowledged his misstep in not seizing the opportunity but is now looking ahead, with a concrete timeline for his comeback in mind.
Jiri Prochazka Eyes October Comeback, Names Paulo Costa And Magomed Ankalaev As Potential Opponents
During a recent appearance on *The Ariel Helwani Show*, Jiri Prochazka shared that he has moved past the loss to Ulberg and is aiming for a UFC return, likely in October. He plans to take a short break to focus on his newborn daughter and fatherhood responsibilities.
“I keep myself sharp and fresh all year,” Prochazka stated. “Right now I have time with my girls, so it will be like two months. I just came back from the fight and went straight to the hospital, and all these things. So right now I believe August, September, November, October, something around October.”
When questioned about a preferred next opponent, the 33-year-old Czech fighter identified Paulo Costa and Magomed Ankalaev as his top choices.
“Right now, Costa or Ankalaev… I don’t care. I want the best. I want to be the best. And since you understand that you want to be the best, you have to defeat whoever. So, one of them, I believe, deserves the fight.”
Jiri Procházka currently holds a 6-3 record in the UFC, with notable victories against Jamahal Hill, Glover Teixeira, and Khalil Rountree Jr.
