Jiri Prochazka has experienced both the sweet taste of victory and the bitter sting of defeat. Recently, the former 205lbs champion reflected on his twin losses to current division gold standard Alex Pereira. Despite an impressive victory over Jamahal Hill at UFC 311, the scars from his encounters with ‘Poatan’ still linger.

In a recent appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, the Czech native opened up about the losses, displaying the humility that has become a hallmark of his character. He acknowledged his mistakes, taking full responsibility for his shortcomings in the bouts with Pereira. Rather than dwelling on regret, he accepted that he is still learning and evolving as a fighter.

Jiri Prochazka weighs in on his debacles against Alex Pereira

JRE MMA #165 featured a candid conversation between UFC color commentator Joe Rogan and Jiri Prochazka, who is known for his unconventional training methods and fearless approach to fighting. During their discussion, they inevitably brought up Prochazka’s loss to Alex Pereira — a defeat that still weighs on the former champion.

Prochazka, ever humble, openly admitted to his mistake, saying, “In the second fight with Pereira I was a little bit punched at the end of the first round so I stepped to the second round and I said to myself. I was too courageous and kept the ends down so that’s why it happened.” This lack of focus, combined with Pereira’s concussive striking prowess, played a key role in Prochazka’s defeat at UFC 303.

Prochazka reflected on his fights with Pereira, admitting that he came very close to defeating him in their first encounter at UFC 295 but described their second bout as “really ridiculous.” Speaking in an interview with ESPN MMA, he was candid about his experiences and the lessons he learned from facing the Brazilian.

According to Prochazka, the second fight served as a crucial turning point in his career, offering insights into what he needs to improve to compete at the highest level.

Jiri Prochazka aims a trilogy fight against Pereira

Unlike his rival Jamahal Hill, who felt ‘cheated’ after his loss to Pereira, Jiri Prochazka has embraced his defeats as valuable learning experiences. In a conversation with Shakiel Mahjouri of Shak MMA ahead of his UFC 311 bout, Prochazka reflected on the lessons he gained from his two losses to Pereira. “But maybe, maybe a little bit hands up—but just a little bit. There were more things because if somebody catches you twice, twice the time, that means something. So I took a lot from that,” he admitted.

Prochazka’s first loss to Pereira came in 2023 when the Brazilian clinched the light heavyweight title with a finish. While some fans questioned the referee’s decision to stop the fight, Prochazka agreed with the stoppage. His second loss at UFC 303 was another setback, but the ever-composed fighter remained true to his philosophy of calmness in the chaos, acknowledging his mistakes and focusing on growth. “If there are mistakes, OK, learn what you can and be better next time,” he explained, maintaining his focus on the Bushido principles that guide his training and lifestyle.

Despite the losses, Prochazka has not forgotten his rivalry with Pereira. At UFC 311, while the Brazilian was in attendance, the Czech fighter boldly called for a third fight with the current champion. “So I will do my challenges in nature, meditations, and all these things. But only hands up just a little bit…I want a third fight with Alex Pereira,” Prochazka said, showing his unwavering resolve.

With such dedication, humility, and a calm demeanor, Prochazka’s journey in the UFC continues, leaving fans wondering: Will the calm and collected Czech Samurai get his third shot at Pereira? Tell us what you think in the comment section below!