Jiri Prochazka, a former UFC light heavyweight champion, was initially supportive of new champion Magomed Ankalaev‘s victory over Alex Pereira, but their relationship soured when Ankalaev publicly criticized Prochazka, prompting Prochazka to dismiss Ankalaev as a “fraud” and express his determination to reclaim the title.
Jiri Prochazka had no qualms with Magomed Ankalaev—until the new light heavyweight champ decided to take a jab at him. Just hours after Ankalaev’s victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 313, the tension escalated.
Prochazka, a former champ himself and always a contender, was keenly watching the fight’s outcome. He even congratulated Ankalaev, praising his “beautiful pressure” against Pereira. But, oh boy, things took a turn.
Ankalaev didn’t hold back, calling Prochazka a “terrible fighter” and a “fraud.” The audacity! He suggested that Jiri should win some fights first, claiming many others deserved a shot more than him. Ouch.
“This guy is a terrible fighter,” Ankalaev tweeted on March 9, 2025. Such harsh words! And there was more: “I think you are a fraud,” he added in another tweet. Talk about adding fuel to the fire.
Prochazka wasn’t thrilled with these comments. On the Ariel Helwani Show, he admitted, “I like all the people except him.” That last tweet? Too much for him to handle.
What really irked Prochazka was the shift in Ankalaev’s demeanor. They’d met before—cordially! Now, post-victory, Ankalaev’s attitude was different. Fame changes people, huh?
“He don’t know me,” Prochazka remarked. Their previous encounter at the UFC Performance Institute in Vegas was friendly enough. But now? It’s like dealing with a whole new person.
Ankalaev’s newfound bravado didn’t sit well with Prochazka. He criticized Ankalaev’s performance against Pereira, calling it the worst display ever. Fraudulent behavior? Prochazka thinks so.
Despite Ankalaev’s criticism, Prochazka stands by his record. Since joining the UFC, he’s built an impressive resume with only losses to Pereira. Not bad for someone labeled as “terrible.”
“I’m giving everything to my fights,” Prochazka asserted. Unlike Ankalaev, who he claims runs from high-performance moments in later rounds. A bold statement!
Ankalaev’s words might sting, but they also fuel Prochazka’s fire to reclaim championship glory. It’s less about personal beef and more about that shiny belt around Ankalaev’s waist.
Ultimately, it’s not about liking or disliking Ankalaev for Prochazka; it’s about the title. “I just want to go and take a title,” he stated plainly. Internet feuds? Nah, he’s got bigger fish to fry.
Prochazka isn’t just eyeing Ankalaev; he’s also open to facing Pereira again. But for now? All roads lead to Ankalaev—the current priority on his hit list.
“I don’t want to be stuck in some emotions,” Prochazka explained regarding Pereira. Confident he’ll meet Alex again someday, he’s focused on doing whatever it takes to confront Ankalaev next.
And so the saga continues…