Jiri Prochazka's Coach Suggests Move To Middleweight Amid Retirement Talk

Photo: Instagram/Jiri Prochazka

Following his loss to Alex Pereira at UFC 303, former light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka is contemplating his future in fighting. Prochazka hinted on social media that he might either evolve as a fighter or retire.

However, his coach, Martin Karaivanov, has another idea: moving down to middleweight. Prochazka, who has never fought professionally at 185 lbs, is considering this move.

Karaivanov believes now might be the perfect time to try it. “Everything was fine. I don’t know what happened. Jiri himself said afterward that he couldn’t get into the match,” Karaivanov told tncz. He added, “We’re certainly not done, we’re continuing. Middleweight would give meaning as a new restart.”

Photo: Instagram/Jiri Prochazka

After his loss, Prochazka announced he would take a break from competing but has returned to some light training, sharing a video of himself punching a plank of wood.

He remains focused on improving, stating, “I will take rest, but now it’s time to elevate. Start again. Smarter, faster, more precisely.”


If Prochazka moves to middleweight, he could be put straight into a title eliminator fight due to his light heavyweight accolades. He’ll likely be watching the upcoming title fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 on August 17.

Read Next: Mauricio Sulaimán Speaks On Ryan García’s Expulsion From WBC

Source: Bloody Elbow 

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