Jiri Prochazka has expressed that his competition with Alex Pereira remains unresolved even after Pereira decided to advance to the heavyweight division. The UFC recently confirmed that Pereira vacated his light heavyweight title, opening the door for Prochazka to vie for the 205-pound championship once more. Prochazka is scheduled to fight Carlos Ulberg at UFC 327 for the vacant title. Despite Pereira’s move, Prochazka believes they will face each other again in the octagon, continuing their intense rivalry.
Title Vacancy Opens Opportunity While Prochazka Reflects on Trilogy Hopes
Pereira’s decision to leave the light heavyweight belt has created an opportunity for Prochazka, though the Czech fighter admits he had hoped for a trilogy bout with his Brazilian counterpart. At 38 years old and set to compete in his third weight class, Prochazka sees the situation as understandable but still disappointing.
Addressing the topic, Prochazka stated on The Ariel Helwani Show,
“I’m not surprised (he vacated the title),”
and added,
“I think it’s the gentleman’s thing to do when you go up and he wants to go up, it’s normal to release the title.”
He also shared his desire for a tough championship fight, saying,
“Yeah (I was disappointed) that’s the thing I hoped for (a trilogy fight against Pereira). Possible opponents for me were Ulberg or Pereira, I wanted just one of these two for a title fight because I don’t think other fighters deserve it.”
Despite two knockout losses against Pereira in their past meetings, Prochazka has rebounded with impressive wins over Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree Jr., proving his resilience and skill as a fighter.
Future Matchups Hinged on Pereira’s Heavyweight Progress
While Prochazka is confident that Pereira will come back into his path, the timing will depend largely on how smoothly Pereira transitions to the heavyweight division. Discussions are underway for Pereira’s next bout to be against UFC legend Jon Jones at an upcoming UFC White House event. This matchup has been anticipated by both fighters ever since Pereira reclaimed the light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev.
Prochazka emphasized his expectation,
“I believe sooner or later, Alex Pereira will come in my way.”
What Lies Ahead for the Light Heavyweight Title and Fierce Competitors
With Alex Pereira’s move to heavyweight and the title now vacant, UFC 327 will reveal whether Prochazka can reclaim the championship against Carlos Ulberg. The outcome will impact the light heavyweight division’s landscape and set the stage for future showdowns. Meanwhile, Pereira’s heavyweight debut and potential fight with Jon Jones will draw significant attention, potentially reshaping divisions in the UFC.
