Jiri Prochazka welcomes title clash with Alex Pereira in his UFC return

Jiri Prochazka has welcomed the possibility of a vacant division title clash with former middleweight champion Alex Pereira in his return to the Octagon.

Jiri Procházka (image credit instagram @jirkaprochazka)
By Mohit | Aug 1, 2023 | 3 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Former undisputed light heavyweight champion, Jiri Prochazka has welcomed the possibility of a vacant division title clash with former middleweight champion Alex Pereira in his return to the Octagon. This comes after Pereira’s split decision win over former titleholder, Jan Blachowicz, in their title eliminator at UFC 291.

Prochazka is the current number-one ranked light heavyweight contender. He has been sidelined since his appearance at UFC 275 back in June of last year in Singapore. When he defeated Pereira’s training partner and former champion Glover Teixeira in a title showcase.

Unfortunately, Prochazka suffered a catastrophic shoulder injury in December of last year and chose to vacate the light heavyweight throne. However, he claimed he would be fighting for Octagon gold upon his immediate return to action.

Following Jamahal Hill’s recent relinquishing of the title due to an Achilles injury. Prochazka shifted his focus to a potential vacant championship bout against either Blachowicz or Pereira.

Jiri Prochazka welcomes title clash with Alex Pereira in his UFC return

Pereira’s split decision victory over former champion Blachowicz in his light heavyweight division debut at UFC 291 earned him a close victory (29-28, 28-29, 29-28). After the fight, Pereira called for a title shot in his next outing at 205 pounds.

For Prochazka, a potential showdown with the knockout artist Pereira could produce an exciting title fight and he is eager to face him in his return.

Yeah, sure – not sure, it’s not confirmed yet from UFC, but that’s the – my next fight will be the title, so I think Alex (Pereira) is a very good chance to show the world a good title fight,” Jiri Prochazka said during a recent interview with MMA Fighting. “And I like to see him as my opponent in my next fight.

Both Prochazka and Pereira have displayed incredible skill and devastating knockout power in their respective divisions. Making this potential title clash an enticing prospect. Prochazka’s unorthodox striking style and precise techniques have garnered him a dedicated fan base. While Pereira’s highlight-reel knockouts have left a lasting impression on fight fans around the world.

Prochazka’s journey to the top of the light heavyweight division has been nothing short of impressive. Since joining the UFC in 2020, he has amassed a perfect 4-0 record with notable wins over Volkan Oezdemir and Dominick Reyes. His electrifying performances have solidified his position as one of the most dangerous fighters in the division.

On the other hand, Pereira’s transition from middleweight to light heavyweight has been equally successful. Despite facing adversity on the scale in his debut at 205 pounds, he showcased his resilience and determination to secure a victory over the former champion, Blachowicz. His striking prowess and aggressive fighting style have quickly made him a fan favorite in the division.

For more UFC news and updates

ReadUFC 291: Preview, Prediction, Fight Card, Where to Watch, Venue, and Tickets

Read: UFC 291 results: Justin Gaethje claims BMF title with stunning knockout victory Over Dustin Poirier

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