5 possible challengers for Jiri Prochazka after UFC 275 win
After a spectacular main event at UFC 275, Jiri Prochazka can now say he is the UFC light heavyweight champion. He submitted Glover Teixiera to become the new champion in a bout that will surely earn Fight of the Year consideration.
The 29-year-old has accomplished a lot so far in his young career. He was a Czech national champion in Muay Thai prior to his transition to MMA. From there, he defeated former Strikeforce light heavyweight champion ‘King Mo’ Lawal to become the inaugural RIZIN light heavyweight champion. Now, in only his third fight inside the octagon, he is the new light heavyweight champion.
It will be interesting to see who the promotion matches 'Denisa' up against for his first title defense. There are many appealing options, especially considering his fighting style and most recent performance.
While many will clamor for an immediate rematch, there is the possibility of champion vs. champion bouts as well. This list will look at five possible challengers for Jiri Prochazka after his UFC 275 win.
#5 Former UFC title challenger Dominick Reyes
Despite being on a three-fight losing spree, Dominck Reyes would be a formidable challenger should he get back into title contention. In 2020, he most notably lost a unanimous decision to then-champion Jon Jones in which many felt he should’ve won.
His most recent loss was against Prochazka last May, which earned them a Fight of the Night bonus.
During his appearance on The MMA Hour, Reyes reflected on his bout with ‘Denisa’ and complimented the champion’s resilience.
“The thing about Jiri is just his heart is crazy man. Like I said, I actually knocked him out in our fight but he came back and kept fighting. It was one of those situations where his heart is almost stronger than his body."
Watch Dominick Reyes' interview below:
‘The Devastator’ could be a fighter that benefits from an extended layoff. He also told Helwani, that he’s targeting an October return. Based on how entertaining the first fight was, Reyes could possibly earn a title shot if he defeats a top-ranked fighter.