Jiri Prochazka Explains Reason Behind Emotional Reaction to Alex Pereira’s UFC 320 Win

Jiri Prochazka reveals a deeper reason for getting emotional after Alex Pereira's brutal knockout over Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320.

Jiri Prochazka Explains Reason Behind Emotional Reaction to Alex Pereira’s UFC 320 Win

Jiri Prochazka reveals reason behind getting emotional after Alex Pereira win

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The UFC light heavyweight division has experienced notable shifts recently, with several pivotal fights reshaping the competitive landscape. This comes after the highly anticipated UFC 320 card, which took place at the T-Mobile Arena. UFC 320 held important 205-pound matchups between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev for the title and the undercard bout between Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr.

The fight between Pereira and Ankalaev acted as a rematch of their previous bout at UFC 313, which ended in a decision loss for the Brazilian superstar. However, the rematch played out entirely differently, as Pereira knocked out Ankalaev in the first round and reclaimed his championship gold. Prochazka, who was present in the crowd, appeared visibly emotional.

Prochazka has been a key figure in the light heavyweight division and himself put on a dominating performance by knocking out Rountree in the third round of their war. He displayed absolute endurance against a heavy hitter and cemented himself as a potential contender for the title. Prochazka was recently seen discussing his emotional reaction to Pereira’s win on The Ariel Helwani Show.

It’s not that I was so happy Alex won or Ankalaev lost. I was so emotional because, in that moment, I really realized that Pereira won and there is a potential fight between me and him. That means there is a third fight. Third chance for me to be successful. I deeply realized, Man, this is something you have to win, or nothing. That will be the biggest challenge of my life.

Jiri Prochazka via The Ariel Helwani Show

Known for his spiritual beliefs and intense workout regimens, Prochazka’s emotional reaction hinted at the manifestation and hard work he puts into his craft. The Czech native has posted multiple videos of himself training in natural landscapes and engaging in rigorous workouts, such as punching trees, practicing with samurai swords, and training at high altitudes to improve his endurance.

Prochazka and Pereira have shared a healthy rivalry, which started back in 2023 when ‘Poatan’ knocked out the Czech superstar to win the vacant light heavyweight championship at UFC 295. However, the rematch was a short-notice bout at UFC 303, which ended in a head-kick knockout by Pereira, resulting in Prochazka’s second chance in regaining the title.

The outcomes of UFC 320 suggest potential matchups that could redefine the division in the coming months. Jiri Prochazka and other top contenders, such as Carlos Ulberg, have made their intentions clear for a title shot. They are likely to carefully evaluate these developments, considering both short-term opportunities and long-term career trajectories.

Jiri Prochazka shares humble encounter with Alex Pereira’s team

Leading up to UFC 320, Alex Pereira and his training camp were met with a significant amount of trash talk and perceived disrespect from Magomed Ankalaev’s team. This tension created a high-stakes environment for Pereira’s camp, which had to maintain its focus and composure. This was also one of the factors that led to Pereira fighting so aggressively at UFC 320.

Jiri Prochazka and Alex Pereira's camp share heartwarming moments
Jiri Prochazka and Alex Pereira’s camp share heartwarming moments (via MMA Mania)

Pereira’s team demonstrated a show of respect and sportsmanship toward Jiri Prochazka and his team. Backstage interactions included Pereira’s training partner and Prochazka’s former opponent, Glover Teixeira, engaging directly with Prochazka. These gestures underscored the camaraderie and mutual respect that exist among fighters, even amidst intense competition and rivalries within the division.\

The other camp was weird to us, no respect. For you guys we’re probably gonna see you next. I don’t know what’s gonna happen but you’re the next guy man. All respect for you guys and your team.

Glover Teixeira via UFC 320 backstage coverage

Teixeira’s comments not only expressed respect but also hinted that Prochazka might be positioned as the next challenger for Alex Pereira. While Jiri Prochazka has been successful in his last two endeavors in the Octagon, it remains to be seen if they are enough to earn him an immediate shot at the light heavyweight championship.

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