32 Facts About Jiří Procházka

Early Life and Background

Jiří Procházka, a name that resonates with MMA enthusiasts, has a fascinating backstory. His journey from a small town in the Czech Republic to the global MMA stage is filled with intriguing details.

1. Born on October 14, 1992, in Hostěradice, Czech Republic, Jiří Procházka grew up in a small town with a population of just over 1,000 people.
2. Procházka's interest in martial arts began at a young age, inspired by the movie "Bloodsport" starring Jean-Claude Van Damme.
3. Before pursuing MMA, Procházka played football and was an avid skateboarder during his teenage years.
4. He started training in Muay Thai at the age of 16, which laid the foundation for his striking skills in MMA.
5. Procházka holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, showcasing his versatility as a fighter.

MMA Career Beginnings

Procházka's entry into the world of MMA was marked by determination and hard work. His early career set the stage for his future success.

6. Jiří Procházka made his professional MMA debut on April 7, 2012, at the age of 19.
7. His first fight was against Stanislav Futera, which he won by TKO in the first round.
8. Procházka fought primarily in the Czech Republic and Slovakia during the early years of his career.
9. He quickly gained a reputation for his aggressive fighting style and knockout power.
10. By the end of 2013, Procházka had amassed a record of 9 wins and 2 losses.

Rise to Fame

Procházka's talent and hard work soon caught the attention of international MMA organizations. His rise to fame was swift and well-deserved.

11. In 2015, Procházka signed with the Japanese MMA organization Rizin Fighting Federation.
12. He made his Rizin debut on December 29, 2015, defeating Satoshi Ishii by TKO in the first round.
13. Procházka's impressive performances in Rizin earned him a shot at the Rizin Light Heavyweight Championship.
14. On April 21, 2019, he won the Rizin Light Heavyweight Championship by defeating Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal.
15. Procházka successfully defended his Rizin title twice before signing with the UFC.

UFC Journey

Joining the UFC marked a new chapter in Procházka's career. He quickly became a fan favorite with his exciting fighting style.

16. Jiří Procházka made his UFC debut on July 11, 2020, against Volkan Oezdemir at UFC 251.
17. He won his debut fight by knockout in the second round, earning the Performance of the Night bonus.
18. Procházka's second UFC fight was against Dominick Reyes on May 1, 2021.
19. He won the fight by knockout in the second round, earning another Performance of the Night bonus.
20. Procházka's knockout of Reyes was named the 2021 Knockout of the Year by several MMA media outlets.

Fighting Style and Techniques

Procházka's fighting style is a blend of various martial arts, making him a versatile and unpredictable opponent.

21. Known for his unorthodox striking, Procházka often uses spinning back fists and elbows to surprise his opponents.
22. His Muay Thai background is evident in his powerful kicks and clinch work.
23. Procházka's aggressive style often leads to high-paced, action-packed fights.
24. Despite his striking prowess, Procházka is also skilled on the ground, with several submission victories to his name.
25. He trains at Jetsaam Gym Brno in the Czech Republic, where he hones his skills with a dedicated team of coaches.

Personal Life and Interests

Outside the octagon, Procházka leads an interesting life filled with unique hobbies and interests.

26. Procházka is a practitioner of Bushido, the Japanese code of honor and morals developed by the samurai.
27. He often meditates and practices mindfulness to maintain mental clarity and focus.
28. Procházka is an avid reader, with a particular interest in philosophy and self-improvement books.
29. He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, which help him stay connected to nature.
30. Procházka is also a fan of video games, often playing them to relax and unwind after training sessions.

Achievements and Records

Procházka's career is decorated with numerous accolades and records, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.

31. As of 2023, Jiří Procházka holds a professional MMA record of 29 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw.
32. He has won 25 of his fights by knockout, demonstrating his incredible striking power.

Final Glimpse at Jiří Procházka

Jiří Procházka's journey from a small-town kid in the Czech Republic to a global MMA sensation is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, unique fighting style, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made him a standout figure in the world of mixed martial arts. With a career marked by impressive victories and a never-give-up attitude, Procházka continues to capture the hearts of fans worldwide. His story reminds us that with hard work, passion, and a bit of daring, anyone can achieve greatness. Whether you're a die-hard MMA fan or just someone who loves a good underdog story, Jiří Procházka's rise to fame is a testament to the power of perseverance. Keep an eye on this fighter; his journey is far from over, and the best is yet to come.