Formidable Czech UFC light heavyweight contender Jiri Procházka recently unveiled his personal lineup of the top 5 MMA combatants. Procházka holds the top spot in the UFC light heavyweight rankings and the 14th spot in the men’s pound-for-pound rankings.
In an exclusive interview with RMC Sports Combat, Procházka shared his insights on the best in the business. Alongside the expected inclusions of Jones and St-Pierre, Procházka added Charles Oliveira, Fedor Emelianenko, and Conor McGregor to his top 5. Interestingly, the absence of undefeated Dagestani champion Khabib Nurmagomedov raised eyebrows.
After an over one-year hiatus, Jiri Procházka is set to return to the octagon. The former light heavyweight champion secured his title at UFC 275 by defeating Glover Teixeira, only to face adversity with a severe shoulder injury before UFC 282.
This compelled him to give up the title, putting him out of action for a substantial nine months. Now, Prochazka is ready to re-enter the ring against new light heavyweight contender Alex Pereira.
Procházka’s next challenge comes in the form of Alex Pereira, the former middleweight champion. He recently won against Jan Blachowicz in his debut in the light heavyweight division.
Procházka’s journey back to the octagon was marred by what UFC CEO Dana White dubbed the “worst shoulder injury ever in the UFC.” Discussing the severity of the injury, White stated:
“…the doctor literally said in all the years of the UFC, this is the worst shoulder injury we’ve ever seen…It’s pretty nasty…he still wanted to fight…He tore it good.”
Procházka’s recovery involved a mix of physical and psychological strategies. Emphasizing the importance of mental resilience, he shared insights into overcoming adversity and the significant role psychological recovery played in his journey back to the top.