The UFC light heavyweight title has been vacated. Champion Jiri Prochazka was scheduled to defend his belt at UFC 282 next month, but a shoulder injury sustained in fight camp has announced on Instagram that he will be unable to compete for up to a year. Out of respect for his fellow fighters, and a desire not to hold up the division, the first Czech UFC champion has opted to step down from the belt.
“I am very disappointed to announce that I will not be defending my belt at UFC 282. I was injured in training in Las Vegas while finishing my preparation for my title defense in the UFC’s light heavyweight division. I injured my shoulder and surgery is required which will put me out of action for at least six months.
Prochazka Vacates LHW Belt, UFC 282 Main Event Rescheduled
Knowing this information, I have decided, after consulting with UFC management, that due to this time constraint, I will not hold [up] the light heavyweight division and will vacate the title.”
Prochazka’s scheduled bout against Glover Teixeira will no longer take place. Instead, former champion Jan Blachowicz will face Magomed Akalaev for the vacant title. Prochazka confirmed that, as soon as he’s able, he’ll be back to reclaim the strap.
“I will go for the UFC belt as soon as the doctors give me the green light to fight. I’m going to go for the belt and I’m going to get it no matter who currently holds it. It’s always been the most important thing for me to put on the best performance and compare myself to the best. Let the best show no matter who’s there now.
I’ll be back in six months and I’ll take the title whoever holds it. I apologize to my fans, friends, family who bought tickets and made plans to come to Las Vegas to support me, it means a lot to me. I also want to apologize to Glover. Victory!”
The UFC released an official statement announcing the change in the main event for UFC 282.
“UFC light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka has suffered a shoulder injury that will require a significant rehabilitation period. Out of respect to the athletes and the division, Prochazka has elected to vacate his title and will compete for the belt as soon as he is medically cleared.
As a result, the new UFC 282 main event will see former champion and No. 2 ranked Jan Blachowicz take on surging No. 3 ranked Magomed Ankalaev for the vacant, undisputed UFC light heavyweight championship.”
Is this the end of Jiri Prochazka’s time at the top? Let us know in the comments.
