Jiri Prochazka nationality: Where is UFC light heavyweight star from?

Discover Jiri Prochazka's nationality and origins as we explore the background of the UFC light heavyweight sensation in this article.

Jiri Prochazka nationality: Where is UFC light heavyweight star from?

Jiri Prochazka (Image via IMAGO)

Jiri Prochazka has successfully made his name in the UFC after just a few appearances inside the octagon. He made his UFC debut back in 2020 against Volkan Oezdemir at UFC 251 with a knockout win. The fighter continued his streak by defeating Dominick Reyes and later getting a title opportunity against Glover Teixeira.

In the title fight, Prochazka and Teixeira gave fans a very tight contest at UFC 275; however, in the end, Prochazka took the win via submission. Prochazka’s title run was nothing but surprising; however, it didn’t last, as the fighter had to vacate the belt due to an injury. Nevertheless, the ‘Samurai’ has already established his fan following due to his unique personality and background.

YouTube video

What is Jiri Prochazka’s nationality?

As per the information available about the fighter, it is evident that Jiri Prochazka proudly competes for the Czech Republic in the UFC. However, when we examine the specifics of his birthplace, the background of his nationality assumes an intriguing historical context.

Jiri Prochazka nationality
Jiri Prochazka nationality (Image via: X/Jiri Prochazka)

Prochazka was born on October 14, 1992, in Znojmo, which at the time was a part of Czechoslovakia. This historical context emphasizes his ties to the Czech Republic, the passage of time, and the constantly changing geopolitical environment.

The Czech Republic and Slovakia were created after the dissolution of the Czechoslovak Federation in 1992. After that, the fighter was granted Czech nationality because the place of his birth was within the borders of the Czech Republic. Additionally, reports state that he is of mixed ethnicity. His mother is Vietnamese, and his father was born in the Czech Republic.

How did Jiri Prochazka take inspiration from a legendary samurai?

Jiri Procházka is recognized for his fierce knockout skills and wild fighting style within the cage, but outside, he is a traditional and respectable martial artist who bases his morals on the Bushidō code.

Jiri Prochazka nationality
Jiri Prochazka Samurai (Image via: X/Jiri Prochazka)

Outside of the Octagon, Procházka is known for his Samurai-inspired lifestyle. The fighter gas talked about his distinct mindset and gave thanks to a specific Japanese swordsman and philosopher for his devoted observance of the warrior code.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, the fighter explained:

I don’t know a lot of samurai, just a few warriors, true warriors. But I think the most important person in my life is Miyamoto Musashi because of his book and his life. For me, he was so inspirational. I read the book, and I started to include these rules in my life. Because I know it’s functional, it’s simple, and it’s powerful.

Miyamoto Musashi is extremely popular in Japan for his story of being a double-bladed swordsman with a perfect record in 61 duels. The Book of Five Rings, penned by Musashi shortly before his death in 1645, conveys the lessons he taught his own students in the dojo. The book has helped a lot of people and Procházka is one of them.

If You Missed It!