Jiri Prochazka is aiming for a potential return to the Octagon this autumn.
Prochazka’s third bid for the light heavyweight title concluded in disappointment when he was defeated by Carlos Ulberg via first-round knockout in the main event of UFC 327. The fighter, known as “BJP,” was unable to capitalize after Ulberg sustained a knee injury early in the bout, a missed opportunity that proved to be costly. He was caught by a precise left hand that knocked him down, and a series of follow-up strikes led the referee to stop the fight.
The former 205-pound champion has since acknowledged his costly mistake in not seizing the opportunity but now appears fully focused on moving forward, with a return timeline already in his sights.
Jiri Prochazka Eyes October Comeback, Names Paulo Costa and Magomed Ankalaev as Potential Opponents
During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Jiri Prochazka shared that he has put the loss to Ulberg behind him and is now targeting a UFC return, likely in October. He plans to take a short break to focus on his newborn daughter and fatherhood duties.
“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 standout 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.”
Jiří Procházka currently holds a 6-3 record in the UFC, with notable victories against Jamahal Hill, Glover Teixeira, and Khalil Rountree Jr.
