Jiri Prochazka, the former UFC light heavyweight champion, is seriously thinking about dropping to middleweight. The Czech star revealed that a move to 185 pounds could happen, depending on how things unfold at light heavyweight.
The warrior’s uncertain future
Prochazka built his reputation as one of the most fearless fighters in the UFC. He has crushed nearly every opponent in his division, except one—Alex Pereira. Their rivalry has defined the light heavyweight landscape, and a third fight between them remains possible. But Pereira has other plans. He recently expressed a desire to challenge Jon Jones at heavyweight during next year’s UFC White House event.
That puts Prochazka in a tricky position. He dreams of avenging his two defeats to Pereira, yet that chance could vanish if Pereira moves up in weight. The Czech fighter remains determined but realistic about his next steps.
A possible drop to 185 pounds
In a recent interview, Prochazka shared honest thoughts about moving to middleweight. “For me, cutting to 93 kilograms is not a problem,” he told Cageside Press backstage at Oktagon 79. “But dropping to 84 kilograms, like middleweight, would be really something. I believe I can do it because I know my body. I believe I can make it happen, but it depends. First, I want to bring the light heavyweight title to the Czech Republic.”
His confidence shows the mindset of a true competitor. Prochazka understands the challenge of such a move but appears open to testing himself in a new weight class if the situation calls for it.
Big opportunities ahead
Fans around the world admire Prochazka for his spirit and style. Regardless of weight class, his future inside the UFC remains full of promise. With his mix of discipline and creativity, he continues to stand out as one of the sport’s most exciting figures.
Whether he stays at light heavyweight or takes on a new mission at middleweight, Jiri Prochazka’s journey is far from over.
