Jiri Prochazka claims to have signed a contract for his next fight.
The former light heavyweight champion seemingly secured himself another title shot when he knocked out Aleksandar Rakic and won a $300,000 bonus at UFC 300 in April.
Alex Pereira, who dethroned him at UFC 295 last November, still holds the 205lb belt and has been without an opponent since stopping Jamahal Hill on the landmark card.
Prochazka was in the crowd at OKTAGON 58 on Saturday night, and during a cageside interview, he teased a fight announcement – but stopped short of naming his opponent or revealing a return date.
“I would also like to announce that I have signed something, but we will have to wait,” he said. “Because again my organisation is a bit late with it.”
“So, I hope that in a few days, we will know, and it will be out there, and we will go for it.”
Prochazka’s interviewer predicted that the Czech fighter and Pereira will headline UFC 303 on June 29, which is set to feature Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler.
“I think Jiri Prochazka will be the injury replacement at UFC 303,” Ondrej Novotny said.
“For the injured Conor McGregor, in a title fight with [Alex] Pereira in the main event.”
Rumours about McGregor’s comeback fight being called off have been rife since a UFC 303 launch press conference in Dublin was cancelled at the last minute.
3
3
On Tuesday, Ariel Helwani added fuel to the fire with a worrying update.
The veteran MMA reporter claimed there is ‘more pessimism’ than ever about the fight taking place as the UFC is putting out ‘feelers’ for replacement fights.
Still, Prochazka refused to be drawn on speculation about UFC 303.
He replied: “Nice speculation. Nice speculation.
“There are even more variables, but if it will be discussed in Ireland, we’ll see.”
Official statements from Dana White on Prochazka’s next fight and the status are UFC 303 are thought to be imminent.
Sarah Wilson is your guide to the latest trends, viral sensations, and internet phenomena. With a finger on the pulse of digital culture, she explores what’s trending across social media and pop culture, keeping readers in the know about the latest online sensations.
