Jiri Prochazka, a former light heavyweight champion, is set to fight Jamahal Hill on January 18, 2025, as he seeks redemption following losses to Alex Pereira, while dismissing criticism from Hill and focusing on securing a victory rather than a title shot.
Jiri Prochazka is gearing up for his first fight of 2025. He’s making it known that he sees himself as the top contender in the light heavyweight division.
Once a titleholder, Prochazka lost his belt to Alex Pereira at UFC 295. He then faced another defeat against Pereira in a rematch at UFC 303. Now, his sights are set on Jamahal Hill—a rival with whom he’s exchanged words before.
After Prochazka’s initial loss to Pereira, Hill expressed his lack of admiration for both fighters. Prochazka hasn’t let those comments slide. Just this Tuesday, he posted a video online, taking shots at his upcoming opponent for UFC 311.
“I’m really looking forward to my next fight,” Prochazka declared. “Jamahal, don’t comment on my performances or fight I.Q., because in your last fight, you showed nothing.”
Interestingly, Hill and Prochazka share two things: both are former UFC champs and both have tasted defeat at the hands of Pereira. Hill faced Pereira at UFC 300, where he was knocked out in the first round.
The winner of their bout on January 18th isn’t assured a title shot. Pereira is flirting with a fight against heavyweight champ Jon Jones, while Magomed Ankalaev waits in the wings as the presumed No. 1 contender.
According to Prochazka, Ankalaev might need to be patient. “This same guy, Ankalaev, in your last three fights, you showed totally nothing, so stay on the ground,” he said.
Ankalaev remains undefeated in 13 consecutive fights since his initial UFC loss. Yet, the promotion hasn’t committed to him as Pereira’s next challenger.
Prochazka isn’t chasing another title shot right now. His focus? Starting off 2025 with a victory over Hill. “That’s it,” Prochazka confirmed, “January 18th, I’m going to win.”