Tag: Jiri Prochazka

Procházka: I Have To Change My Style Against Teixeira

UFC light heavyweight contender Ji?í Procházka has admitted that he’ll be adjusting his style to deal with the unique threat of Glover Teixeira. In just two UFC appearances, Procházka has established himself as the number one contender and secured a meeting in the cage with the champion. At UFC 275, the Czech star will feature…

Continue Reading Procházka: I Have To Change My Style Against Teixeira at MMA News.

UFC light heavyweight contender Ji?í Procházka has admitted that he’ll be adjusting his style to deal with the unique threat of Glover Teixeira.

In just two UFC appearances, Procházka has established himself as the number one contender and secured a meeting in the cage with the champion. At UFC 275, the Czech star will feature in his first pay-per-view headliner, during which he’ll look to dethrone the Brazilian veteran.

In reaching the UFC, Procházka developed a reputation as one of Europe’s most lethal knockout artists. That was only enhanced when he entered the Octagon, with Volkan Oezdemir and Dominick Reyes both feeling the wild and dangerous nature of the 29-year-old’s standup game.

But if his latest comments are to be believed, we may be seeing a different “Denisa” entering the cage next month.

Procházka: I’ve Drilled My Weakness Ahead Of Teixeira Challenge

During a recent virtual UFC 275 press conference, Procházka, whose title credentials were backed by the great Georges St-Pierre in an interview with MMA News last month, answered questions alongside his third UFC opponent.

When asked whether he’d be retaining the wild and unpredictable style that has secured him 25 knockouts in 28 fights, most recently via spinning back elbow in the UFC Vegas 25 headliner, Procházka revealed that he’s acknowledged certain adjustments that must be made to his game if he is to dethrone Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Teixeira.

“No, (I will not fight with the same style). Because I think my last style in my last fight was changed, because I have to change this style… especially in the ground game, especially in the wrestling,” said Procházka. “That’s why I drilled that with Henry (Cejudo)… (and) back in Czech Republic with my coaches. Everybody knows my strong weapon, and my weakest weakness.

“So, that’s why I start to drill that, that’s why I start to prepare dangerous techniques in that, and I believe in myself in that much, much more than ever,” added Procházka. “I’m glad for that, to have an opponent like Glover. He’s given me the opportunity to prepare myself in these styles, to be better than ever.”

While we may not be seeing quite the same “Denisa” as we witnessed in his first two UFC outings, his fans will be hoping to see an evolved Ji?í Procházka who is capable of withstanding the grappling pedigree of Teixeira. By the sounds of it, the Czech star is confident he can do so.

Who do you think will have their hand raised at UFC 275, Ji?í Procházka or Glover Teixeira?

Continue Reading Procházka: I Have To Change My Style Against Teixeira at MMA News.

Procházka Responds To Accusations Of Being A “Fake Samurai”

UFC light heavyweight contender Ji?í Procházka has responded to claims that his samurai philosophy is ‘fake sh*t’ from rival Aleksandar Raki? and others. The pair of elite European 205lbers have gone back and forth since last year, with Raki? accusing Procházka of ducking him. Following the Czech’s main event knockout victory over Dominick Reyes last…

Continue Reading Procházka Responds To Accusations Of Being A “Fake Samurai” at MMA News.

UFC light heavyweight contender Ji?í Procházka has responded to claims that his samurai philosophy is ‘fake sh*t’ from rival Aleksandar Raki? and others.

The pair of elite European 205lbers have gone back and forth since last year, with Raki? accusing Procházka of ducking him. Following the Czech’s main event knockout victory over Dominick Reyes last May, the Austrian expressed a desire to meet the relative newcomer in a title eliminator.

But having denied ever being offered a fight with “Rocket,” Procházka served as backup for the UFC 267 headliner last October, and has since awaited his shot at gold, set for this coming weekend at UFC 275.

Clearly not pleased with “Denisa” and his approach, Raki? has been extremely critical of the #2-ranked light heavyweight, even targeting his strict following of the Bushido code, which has left many dubbing him the “Czech Samurai.”

Procházka’s philosophy and approach to fighting has impressed many, not least the legendary Georges St-Pierre. The Canadian, who’s previously claimed to follow a similar samurai mindset, recently praised “Denisa” in an interview with MMA News’ own James Lynch, touting him as a future champion.

But Raki? is not so impressed with what he described as “fake samurai sh*t” in an interview with MMA Junkie last December.

“I don’t care about him and this fake samurai sh*t that he’s doing,” said Raki?.

Procházka: I Won’t Judge Raki?’s Ignorance

Despite being days out from his chance at championship glory in MMA’s premier promotion, the topic of Raki? remains one of the more prominent topics in discourse with the challenger. And during an interview with the New York Post, Procházka was given the chance to respond to the Austrian’s criticism of his mindset.

Perhaps perfectly embodying the Bushido spirit, the Czech knockout artist chose not to judge or slam Raki?. Instead, he explained why people like the #3-ranked light heavyweight don’t yet understand the benefits to his approach.

“These people, they just don’t realize so much, I think. It’s just, you have to be a long time [alone] just with yourself to understand these words that I’m saying,” said Procházka. “If you don’t challenge your fears, and all these things, you can’t understand it. And it’s all about that. I’m understanding that everybody [is] evolving, in some step [of] evolution. Nobody is perfect. That’s why I [don’t want] to judge that.”

This Saturday, Procházka will look to secure his place on the light heavyweight throne at an apt location, having spent many of his years fighting and training in Asia. In his way of title success will be veteran Glover Teixeira, who embodies a similarly respectful approach, something that the Brazilian believes should be more appreciated.

Whatever the result, it stands to reason that the calm and relaxed mindset of Procházka will eventually share the Octagon with the brash and outspoken nature of Raki?.

What do you make of Ji?í Procházka’s response to Aleksandar Raki??

Continue Reading Procházka Responds To Accusations Of Being A “Fake Samurai” at MMA News.

The Countdown To UFC 275: Teixeira vs. Procházka Has Officially Begun

Fight week for UFC 275: Teixeira vs. Procházka is upon us, and the countdown has officially begun. The UFC has released their official UFC 275 Countdown video, which features the tripleheader that will be on display this Saturday, June 11, 2022. The main event will feature the colorful Ji?í Procházka challenge Glover Teixeira for the…

Continue Reading The Countdown To UFC 275: Teixeira vs. Procházka Has Officially Begun at MMA News.

Fight week for UFC 275: Teixeira vs. Procházka is upon us, and the countdown has officially begun.

The UFC has released their official UFC 275 Countdown video, which features the tripleheader that will be on display this Saturday, June 11, 2022.

The main event will feature the colorful Ji?í Procházka challenge Glover Teixeira for the light heavyweight championship. After winning UFC gold at 42 years old, Teixeira could have just as easily ridden off into the sunset. Instead, he has circled back for arguably the most dangerous fight he could have right now when he takes on the one-man finish factory that is Ji?í Procházka.

The co-main event will see UFC flyweight queen Valentina Shevchenko defend her title against the 19-1 Taila Santos. Shevchenko has been levels above everyone put in front of her, but none of her opponents has boasted the winning percentage that Santos does. You won’t want to miss this fresh face and latest assignment for the “Bullet” assassin.

And who can overlook the feature strawweight rematch between former champions Joanna J?drzejczyk and Zhang Weili?? The official Countdown video ensures that the first fight is not forgotten and that fans can’t help but remember to tune in for the encore.

Here is what you can expect to see from the UFC 275 Countdown video.

“To all the young dreamers out there, and also the old folks, because I’m 42 and I’m still doing it, dreams are possible” – Glover Teixeira

Glover Teixeira
Glover Teixeira

In the Countdown video, we ride shotgun through Teixeira’s odyssey that culminated in championship gold. The tour also includes a trip with the champion to Brazil, where he shared his joy with his compatriots and also served as a beacon of inspiration.

“After some time in Japan, I realize it’s my destiny to be the champ in the league of the best.” – Ji?í Procházka

Ji Proch zka

In the Countdown video, we get an intimate glimpse into the warrior mentality of Ji?í Procházka. We also are reminded of the controlled frenzy he carries with him into every fight, one finish after another around the globe.

“I really want to show that there is no limits for no one.” – Valentina Shevchenko

Valentina Shevchenko
Valentina Shevchenko (Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

The Countdown video portrays the flyweight queen as the renaissance woman she is. We also get a glimpse into Shevchenko’s home life, including hearing from the matriarch of the Shevchenko family herself, mother of Valentina and Antonina, Elena Shevchenko.

“Valentina, she’s not unbeatable. I’ve seen some of her flaws on the ground, in her striking, too. She’s the champion, right? Until we fight.” – Taila Santos

Confirmed: Valentina Shevchenko set to defend her UFC women's flyweight championship against Taila Santos at UFC 275 » FirstSportz
Taila Santos

The Countdown video introduces those who may be familiar with Saturday’s flyweight title challenger Taila Santos, and viewers come away with a better understanding of why she is as confident as she appears to be ahead of UFC 275.

“Sometimes defeat teaches you more than victory. Sometimes we lose a fight because of details. We’ve tried more techniques this time. I call it ‘Weili 3.0.’” – Zhang Weili

Zhang Weili
Zhang Weili

The Countdown video does the initial classic between Zhang and J?drzejczyk justice, and we also peek into the mentality and preparations of both fierce competitors ahead of the rematch. For Zhang, she is looking to learn from her recent defeats to Rose Namajunas by sharpening up her boxing skills, speed, and even her power.

“We are not the same after our fight. You made me better. I’m coming for the Knockout of the Year this time.” – Joanna J?drzejczyk

Weili Zhang Joanna Jedrzejczyk
Image Credit: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

One word best captures how the Countdown video depicts Joanna J?drzejczyk: rejuvenated. J?drzejczyk has been traveling the globe and keeping herself busy yet relaxed with various interests. All the while, she hasn’t lost her will to compete or avenge her initial loss to Weili.

UFC 275 comes to you from the Singapore Indoor Stadium in Kallang, Singapore. You can view the full lineup for the card below followed by the UFC’s official Countdown video. And be sure to stick with MMA News this fight week for all the latest updates regarding UFC 275!

(card and bout order subject to change)

UFC 275 Main Card (PPV, 10:00 PM ET)

Light Heavyweight Championship Main Event: Glover Teixeira (c) vs. Ji?í Procházka
Women’s Flyweight Championship Bout: Valentina Shevchenko (c)vs. Taila Santos
Women’s Strawweight: Zhang Weili vs. Joanna J?drzejczyk
Welterweight: Jack Della Maddalena vs. Ramazan Emeev
Flyweight: Rogério Bontorin vs. Manel Kape

Preliminary Card (ESPN2/ESPN+, 8:00 PM ET)

Featherweight Seung Woo Choi vs. Joshua Culibao
Middleweight Jacob Malkoun vs. Brendan Allen
Lightweight: Steve Garcia vs. Hayisaer Maheshate
Bantamweight: Kang Kyung-ho vs. Danaa Batgerel

Early Preliminary Card (ESPN+, 6:30 PM ET)

Welterweight Jake Matthews vs. André Fialho
Women’s Strawweight: Liang Na vs. Silvana Gómez Juárez
Women’s Bantamweight: Ramona Pascual vs. Joselyne Edwards

Finally, you can check out the official UFC 275 Countdown video below!

Continue Reading The Countdown To UFC 275: Teixeira vs. Procházka Has Officially Begun at MMA News.

George St-Pierre Declares Jiri Prochazka As A “Future World Champion”

george st-pierreUFC Hall Of Famer, George St-Pierre shares his thoughts on half of this weekend’s main event, Jiri Prochazka, declaring him a ‘future world champion’. UFC 275 will be host to a light-heavyweight clash between Glover Teixeria and Jiri Prochazka, where Teixeira will aim to make his first title defense. Teixeira has competed in 21 UFC […]

george st-pierre

UFC Hall Of Famer, George St-Pierre shares his thoughts on half of this weekend’s main event, Jiri Prochazka, declaring him a ‘future world champion’.

UFC 275 will be host to a light-heavyweight clash between Glover Teixeria and Jiri Prochazka, where Teixeira will aim to make his first title defense.

Teixeira has competed in 21 UFC fights, and has been a presence in the light-heavyweight division since 2012, having fought the likes of Jon Jones, Rashad Evans, and Alexander Gustafsson, but will have his hands full with Prochazka.

The Czech Republic born Prochazka is like nothing the UFC has seen before, embodying the modern-day samurai code, the former Rizin light-heavyweight fights unlike anyone else, throwing an array of strikes from unusual angles.

Along with an unorthodox and unpredictable style, Prochazka packs some serious power, with 25 of his 28 wins coming by knockout. Although only two bouts into his UFC career, ‘Denisa’ has already done enough to warrant a shot at Teixeira- taking out two former title challengers in Dominick Reyes and Volkan Oezdemir in his first two UFC fights.  

George St-Pierre Weighs In

If there’s someone who knows what it takes to become champion it’s St-Pierre, the former UFC welterweight and middleweight champion is confident of Prochazka’s future.

Talking with James Lynch, ‘GSP’ was asked about Prochazka and seems impressed.  “He’s very dangerous, he’s a great striker but I think, his ground game we haven’t seen too much on the ground so its never been exposed that much.

“A lot of guys, they haven’t been exposed so I’m curious to see him compete more but he’s very impressive, I think he’s going to be the future world champion.”

Prochazka actually admitted in and interview, also with Lynch, that growing up, the Canadian was one of his idols and was ecstatic to hear his praise.

“That’s why I’m fighting! To show the people the beauty of the martial arts. And to hear that from Georges St-Pierre who’s my idol in my youngest years, it’s amazing and I’m very glad for that and I just have to say I will show my best in the next fight.”

George St-Pierre talking to James Lynch

Do you agree with George St-Pierre, is Prochazka a future world champion?

Procházka Reveals The Film That Influenced Him To Start Training MMA

UFC title contender Ji?í Procházka tells what movie first got him interested in MMA. The UFC light heavyweight division is a mix of older veterans and younger up-and-coming fighters. At the upcoming UFC 275 card, we will see a battle of the old guard versus the new dog when contender Ji?í Procházka takes on champion…

Continue Reading Procházka Reveals The Film That Influenced Him To Start Training MMA at MMA News.

UFC title contender Ji?í Procházka tells what movie first got him interested in MMA.

The UFC light heavyweight division is a mix of older veterans and younger up-and-coming fighters. At the upcoming UFC 275 card, we will see a battle of the old guard versus the new dog when contender Ji?í Procházka takes on champion Glover Teixeira.

Procházka has had a quick and dominant rise up the UFC rankings. He showed up in the division back in July of 2020, and with only two fights in the organization is up for his first title shot. Procházka is just 29 years old and now holds two KO victories over top-ranked light heavyweight opponents. He is being yielded as the next big thing at 205 pounds by some of his fellow fighters.

In the lead-up to possibly the biggest fight of his career, Procházka took some time to reflect on how he got his start in combat sports.

“Before high school, my first experience with martial arts was when I was playing “Tekken” on the PlayStation (laughs). That was my first experience. And then before I stepped into high school, my friend showed me Muay Thai videos with Ramon Dekkers, Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic, and Fedor [Emelianenko]. It was around 2008, 2007. And I was excited by that,” Procházka told Scott Fontana of the NY Post.

“And after that, I saw the movie “Never Back Down,” the first one (laughs). And then I started to [train] martial arts, especially Thai boxing, and I really fell in love with it.”

Many fighters have claimed the influence of films for piquing their interest in martial arts, and Procházka is no different. He also cited the MMA cult classic “Never Back Down” as his favorite movie of all time.

It isn’t uncommon these days for UFC fighters to now make their way over to Hollywood to star in these fight films and even blockbuster movies. Georges St-Pierre, Michael Bisping, and Ronda Rousey are among some of the names that have made the leap. Maybe the same could be ahead for Procházka.

After all, Procházka has a very unique look about him that could translate well into film. Perhaps with a UFC championship belt around his waist, he too could be a star who inspires young children to begin their own training one day.

Enjoyed reading this article? Share it on social media along with your pick for best fight movie of all time!

Continue Reading Procházka Reveals The Film That Influenced Him To Start Training MMA at MMA News.

Teixeira: It’s Sad That Fighters Like Procházka & I Aren’t More Appreciated

UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Glover Teixeira doesn’t believe that respectful fighters like himself and upcoming challenger Ji?í Procházka get the appreciation that they deserve. While the likes of Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal have brought us some animosity-fueled build-ups in recent times, not to mention the constant barrage that Conor McGregor always sends his opponents’…

Continue Reading Teixeira: It’s Sad That Fighters Like Procházka & I Aren’t More Appreciated at MMA News.

UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Glover Teixeira doesn’t believe that respectful fighters like himself and upcoming challenger Ji?í Procházka get the appreciation that they deserve.

While the likes of Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal have brought us some animosity-fueled build-ups in recent times, not to mention the constant barrage that Conor McGregor always sends his opponents’ way before a fight, there are some UFC stars who prefer to do things in a respectful manner.

One of those athletes is 205-pound king Teixeira. At UFC 267 last October, relations were more than cordial between him and then-champion Jan Blachowicz. Having dethroned the Polish powerhouse in Abu Dhabi, the Brazilian will now look to set an example as a titleholder when he returns to defend the belt against top contender Procházka at UFC 275 next month.

Like Teixeira, “Denisa” embodies the respectful spirit of martial arts, choosing to let his weapons do the talking inside the cage rather than his mouth pre-fight.

While many would probably acknowledge that be the more appropriate attitude, Teixeira still believes that his approach, like Procházka’s, leads to him being under-appreciated, with the trash-talking fighters receiving more acclaim.

Teixeira: We Should Be More Appreciated Than Those Who Fight For The Cameras

During a recent virtual press conference ahead of the UFC 275 card, which is scheduled for Singapore on June 11, Teixeira assessed his opponent’s style.

After branding Procházka as part of the “new generation” of fighters, the Brazilian suggested that while he and the challenger will leave everything inside the Octagon for the fans’ entertainment, it’s often not enough to draw the appropriate respect and appreciation.

“Ji?í is the new generation. He brings a different style. The improvement of these guys, they’re coming up right now. The competition makes you better,” said Teixeira. “And these are the guys that take risks. I’m a guy to take a risk. We put on exciting fights. It’s very sad, to be honest, to see guys like, the way we talk, and we don’t sell as much because it’s very martial arts — very, very respectful.

“But the way we fight is we put everything on the line. You see the way the guys fight, you see the way I fight. I have the most finishes in UFC history in light heavyweight,” added Teixeira. “Losing or winning, I’m over there bleeding and fighting. That’s the style we bring.”

Teixeira went on to suggest that while he bleeds in the name of competition and mixed martial arts, the camera-loving fighters often don’t deliver when they swap the microphone for the gloves.

For that reason, the light heavyweight champ finds it upsetting when those kinds of names receive more recognition.

“People always say — nothing really bothers me, because I’m just happy with where I am, but those kind of things, it’s like, upsetting a little bit,” admitted Teixeira. “Those kind of fighters, they are the ones who should be more appreciated rather than (the ones who) make chaos and (play up) to the cameras, and when it comes to the fights, they throw jabs from distance.”

Teixeira and Procházka will look to give an example of how a respectful build-up can lead to a memorable war inside the cage when they share the Octagon in Singapore. It’s perhaps fitting that the pair are headlining the UFC’s first-ever Asian-held pay-per-view given that the region embodies the humble and gracious nature of martial arts.

Do you agree with Glover Teixeira? Should respectful fighters be appreciated more than trash-talkers?

Continue Reading Teixeira: It’s Sad That Fighters Like Procházka & I Aren’t More Appreciated at MMA News.