Jiri Prochazka is about for his first battle of 2025, and he’s making it clear he sees himself because the contender to beat at gentle heavyweight.
A former titleholder, Prochazka dropped the belt to Alex Pereira at UFC 295 after which later misplaced a rematch to Pereira at UFC 303. Up subsequent for the Czech hanging specialist is Jamahal Hill, a rival that has traded phrases with Prochazka previously.
Following Prochazka’s first loss to Pereira, Hill said how unimpressed he was with each fighters. It appears Prochazka hasn’t forgotten these phrases as he posted a video to social media on Tuesday, slamming his upcoming UFC 311 opponent.
“I’m actually trying ahead for my subsequent battle,” Prochazka stated. “Jamahal, don’t talk about my performances, battle I.Q. and all this stuff, as a result of in your final battle, you didn’t present nothing, actually.”
Hill shares two issues in widespread with Prochazka: They’re each former UFC champions, and so they’ve each been on the receiving finish of a Pereira knockout. Hill fought Pereira in the principle occasion of UFC 300, succumbing to strikes contained in the opening spherical.
Whoever wins on Jan. 18 isn’t assured one other title alternative, with Pereira flirting with a bout with heavyweight champion Jon Jones, and presumed No. 1 contender Magomed Ankalaev nonetheless ready for his alternative.
Based mostly on Prochazka’s evaluation, Ankalaev ought to hold ready.
“This identical man, Ankalaev, in your final three fights, you confirmed completely nothing, so keep on the bottom,” Prochazka stated.
Ankalaev is undefeated in 13 straight fights since shedding his UFC debut, however the promotion is but to decide to him as the following opponent for Pereira.
For Prochazka’s half, he’s not angling for one more title shot simply but, together with his focus solely on kicking off 2025 with a win over Hill.
“That’s it, 18th of January, I’m going to win,” Prochazka stated.
