Jiri Prochazka powered by looming fatherhood for UFC 327 title fight
Jiri Prochazka is expected to become a father just a couple of days after his title fight at UFC 327. This has brought pressure, but also motivation.
Jiri Prochazka is about to enter one of the most important stretches of his entire life. In the main event of UFC 327 on April 11, Prochazka (32-5-1 MMA, 6-2 UFC), a former UFC light heavyweight champion, challenges for the belt he lost due to injury in 2022. To win the vacant UFC light heavyweight title, he'll have to get past Carlos Ulberg (13-1 MMA, 8-1 UFC).
This bout marks Prochazka's third attempt at reclaiming his belt, and it could potentially be his final opportunity. This is a monumental moment in his life, and it's been paired with an even bigger one: the birth of his first child. "The date of the fight is the 11th, and the date of birth is around the 13th, 14th," Prochazka told MMA Junkie.
"Yeah, so they'll be close, but I believe, I believe that I can handle my mission and my girlfriend will handle her mission. So yeah, a little bit of pressure, a little bit of pressure in April, but this is what I like. " There's a lot happening in Prochazka's life right now.
The birth of his child is a new layer added to his fighting career. Prochazka admits it's brought a great deal of pressure, but with it, an immense amount of motivation. "A lot.