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Jiri Prochazka Positions for Light Heavyweight Title Shot, Keeps Middleweight Option Open

He is targeting a March–April 2026 return as Alex Pereira’s heavyweight pursuit leaves the 205-pound timetable uncertain.

Overview

  • Prochazka said he believes he is next for the light heavyweight title and named March or April 2026 for his comeback after speaking at Oktagon 79 in Brno.
  • He stated he can make 185 pounds and would consider dropping to middleweight only if the light heavyweight picture stalls, while emphasizing his priority to bring the 205-pound belt back to Czechia.
  • Pereira, fresh off reclaiming the title at UFC 320, has expressed interest in a heavyweight superfight with Jon Jones at a tentatively planned June 14, 2026 event in Washington, D.C., and is reported to be recovering from a broken foot.
  • If Pereira pursues heavyweight, the UFC could move to fill a vacant 205-pound title, elevating contenders such as Prochazka and Carlos Ulberg into a championship matchup.
  • Prochazka reestablished his No. 1 contender status with a third-round knockout of Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 320, though he has lost two prior UFC meetings with Pereira.