Jiri Prochazka has been officially named the backup fighter for the highly anticipated light heavyweight title rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira at UFC 320, scheduled for October. This announcement comes after Ankalaev claimed the title from Pereira in their March matchup at UFC 313.
Prochazka enters the UFC 320 event fresh off a commanding third-round knockout of Jamahal Hill at UFC 311 in January, further solidifying his status as a top contender in the division. His inclusion as the standby fighter ensures a seamless replacement if either champion is unable to compete on fight night.
Prochazka Addresses His Role as Official Backup Fighter
During an interview with Ariel Helwani, Prochazka confirmed his position as the backup for the main event. When asked directly, he stated:
“Yeah. That’s right. That was the deal with the UFC.”
Alongside his backup duties, Prochazka is also booked to face Khalil Rountree Jr. on the same UFC 320 card. Regarding whether this bout would act as a middleweight title eliminator, he confirmed the stakes involved:
“Yes. It’s not yet on the paper, but that was the reward.”
Background: The Stakes of the Ankalaev-Pereira Rivalry
The upcoming rematch at UFC 320 carries significant weight, as Ankalaev secured the light heavyweight championship by defeating Pereira through a decision in their last fight. This loss marked a pivotal moment for Pereira, the Brazilian fighter seeking to reclaim his title.
The competitive nature of the division underscores the importance of Prochazka’s positioning as a reliable contingency. His recent successes and fighting style make him a fitting option to step in if required, ensuring the event’s main attraction remains intact.
Prochazka’s Philosophy on Fighting and Self-Leadership
Following his knockout victory over Hill, Prochazka shared insights into his unique approach to fighting and self-awareness in an interview with Jesse Encamp. He emphasized the necessity of personal honesty and meditation in both life and sport, explaining:
“Guys, it’s not about like you train here, you train in the gym, you train whatever. I like to be alone, to challenge myself, to know where to find the limits and how to put it in the balance. If you don’t know how to train alone, you will be just leaded by somebody in the gym, by the coach, by your parents, by whoever. You have to be your own leader in your life. You have to be honest to yourself, every time honest.”
He further elaborated on overcoming fear and discovering inner strength:
“What is my limit right now? Where is my fear right now? What I have to do or what I have to understand is just have to be you. Pure yourself… How you want to be a strong man before all the world if you are not strong person just like that? Enjoying your peace, enjoying your silence and that’s it. That’s all… Start to meditate, meet yourself, your own demons, know the voice in your head and then you understand, it’s not exist.”
Implications for the UFC Light Heavyweight Division
With Prochazka positioned as the designated backup fighter while simultaneously competing in a potential title eliminator fight, UFC 320 is poised to deliver a dynamic night for the light heavyweight division. Should the rematch between Ankalaev and Pereira be disrupted, Prochazka’s readiness ensures the event’s championship continuity.
This arrangement also highlights the UFC’s commitment to high-stakes competition and careful contingency planning, maintaining excitement and legitimacy around the light heavyweight title picture heading into October.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Alex Pereira lose?
A. Alex Pereira experienced just his third career defeat and his first in six matches. He lost by unanimous decision to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 on Saturday.
Q. How is Alex Pereira so powerful?
A. He’s quite tall, which gives him a lot of leverage. His height and ability to stay calm produce a lot of strength. He can move his muscles swiftly and generate a lot of energy when he springs into action.