Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Ankalaev vs Blachowicz. The fight took place in the wake of his choice to vacate the title, and the title remains vacant after the bout was declared a draw. In a recent interview with The MMA Hour, Prochazka declared the fight a victory for Magomed Ankalaev.
“One-hundred percent, like everybody who watched that, Ankalaev was 100 percent the winner, but it was really close. I really appreciated that he showed a big warrior’s spirit, because his leg was f***** up, and he showed really nice heart in that fight.
Prochazka: Ankalaev Beat Blachowicz “100 Per Cent”
Jan, he didn’t use the opportunity to end Ankalaev with that [leg kick], because everybody watched that. So [it] doesn’t matter about their fight, doesn’t matter about what will be next. I will be focused on what’s next for me and be in my best shape for the fight.”
The next light heavyweight title fight will take place at UFC 283 in Rio de Janeiro, between another former champ, Glover Teixeira, and Jamahal Hill. Prochazka acknowledged that fellow elite light heavyweight Anthony Smith is right to be disappointed to miss out on the title shot.
“It’s a crazy situation, but I think that was a little disrespectful to Smith, but our division must move forward. Because how I see that, I’m the one and only guy who is still evolving, and who is showing a true potential of the light heavyweight. Because there is a lot of guys who are fighting to win, to just make money, and this is not about [that]. This is about the best performances. We’re in the UFC, and the guys have to respect that. We’re in the best organization of the martial arts, and you have to show some art, what you’re working on all your life and career, and our division must move forward.
That’s why I respect the opinion and the result. The next title fight will be in Brazil … If Hill is talking like he’s the best, OK, let’s show it, and I will be glad if he will show a great performance, because after I return, I will show him or whoever will be there, I’m 200 percent on another level.”
Overall, Prochazka’s samurai mentality persists, with Prochazka firmly stating that he just wants the best opponent he can get. “Show me the best opponent, and I will win.”
