Jiri Prochazka is aiming for a comeback in the Octagon this fall.
Prochazka’s bid for a third light heavyweight title ended in disappointment at UFC 327, where he was defeated by Carlos Ulberg via first-round knockout. Despite an early knee injury to Ulberg, “BJP” was unable to capitalize. He was caught by a decisive left hand, leading to a series of follow-up strikes that prompted the referee to stop the fight.
The former 205-pound champion has since acknowledged a costly misstep in not seizing the opportunity. However, he now appears to be looking forward, with a return timeline already in place.
Jiri Prochazka Targets October Comeback, Names Paulo Costa and Magomed Ankalaev as Potential Opponents
In a recent interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Jiri Prochazka shared that he has moved past the loss to Ulberg and is now focused on his UFC return, likely in October. He plans to take a short break to dedicate time to 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 potential opponents, the 33-year-old Czech fighter identified Paulo Costa and Magomed Ankalaev as his preferred 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.”
Jirí Procházka currently holds a 6-3 record in the UFC, with significant victories over Jamahal Hill, Glover Teixeira, and Khalil Rountree Jr.
