Jiri Prochazka Eager for Trilogy Bout with Alex Pereira, Considers Heavyweight Leap

Former UFC champion Jiri Prochazka remains keenly interested in a third encounter with Alex Pereira.

Pereira, a remarkable two-division UFC champion who held both the light heavyweight and middleweight belts, has announced his decision to vacate his 205-pound throne and transition to the heavyweight division. The Brazilian fighter is slated to make his 265-pound debut on June 14, where he will face Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight championship.

While "Poatan" sets his sights on becoming the UFC's first-ever three-division champion, Jiri Prochazka has his own immediate goal: reclaiming the light heavyweight title. He is scheduled to compete for the vacant strap next weekend in the main event of UFC 327, where he will go head-to-head with Carlos Ulberg.

In a recent interview, Prochazka once again expressed his strong desire to fight Pereira for a third time, suggesting that this potential trilogy bout could even take place at heavyweight. Pereira has previously defeated Prochazka by knockout in both of their prior light heavyweight contests.

Jiri Prochazka on a Potential Heavyweight Transition and Rematch with Alex Pereira

Jiri Prochazka conveyed to interviewers that a move up to heavyweight would be a natural and advantageous step for him. The Czech star believes he would possess superior speed, precision, and conditioning compared to many fighters currently competing in the 265-pound category.

“I don’t really care which weight I am fighting. When I fought in Rizin in Japan, I fought with the heavyweight guys many times. I can push my body to show much greater strength and be able to fight with these types of guys, with these heavyweights, and still be faster, have more endurance, be more precise – all these things. So, it’s a really good idea for me.”

Speaking specifically about a potential third clash with Alex Pereira, the 33-year-old stated:

“If I meet Alex in the future for a third fight, I hope, and I believe that I will show my best and I will win.”

Prochazka also noted that the chances of Pereira returning to the light heavyweight division are slim, as "Poatan" himself has indicated his intention to finish his UFC career in his new heavyweight weight class.

For now, Prochazka's immediate focus is on defeating Ulberg and securing the light heavyweight championship at UFC 327. After achieving this goal, a highly anticipated third fight against "Poatan" could very well be on the horizon.