When the lights go down at UFC 320, all eyes will be on the light heavyweight bout between former champion Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr. Set for October 4, 2025, at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena, this is more than just another fight; it has the potential to shake up the division’s title picture. Prochazka brings dynamic, high-volume striking, while Rountree relies on measured knockout power. So, how do they square up, and who has the edge heading into the Octagon? Let’s find out.

Jiri Prochazka vs. Khalil Rountree Jr.: Height, weight, record, age, and rankings

Jiri Prochazka, the former UFC light heavyweight champion, carries a professional MMA record of 31-5-1. At 32 years old, he is one of the division’s most explosive attackers, known for his knockout power and unconventional approach. ‘BJP,’ who stands at 6’4″ and has an imposing 80.0″ (203 cm) reach, is a constant threat in the Octagon due to his speed, creativity, and finishing abilities. Ranked #2 in the UFC light heavyweight rankings as of 2025, he aims to reclaim his position as the division’s top fighter following injury setbacks.

Khalil Rountree Jr., a powerful southpaw striker, also fights at 205 pounds. The 35-year-old has a 14-6 record, bringing years of expertise, resilience, and knockout power. His numerous UFC performance bonuses highlight his deadly striking and fight-ending abilities. Ranked #4 in the UFC light heavyweight division, ‘The War Horse’ is a former title challenger and a proven contender, capable of surprising even the most skilled opponents.

In summary, both of them have extensive experience in the 205-pound light heavyweight division. ‘The Czech Samurai,’ younger and more dynamic, is 31-5-1 and ranked second, while Rountree, 35, is 14-6 and ranked #4. But while a well-built body may help you win, in the end, it is all about the skills. So, how do their skills compare?

Comparing striking stats and takedown data

Jiri Prochazka is known for his aggressive, high-volume striking style, averaging 5.31 major strikes per minute and 55% accuracy. However, his tendency to engage in repeated exchanges means that he absorbs approximately 5.17 important strikes per minute while defending only 40% of incoming shots.

His takedown game is also limited but respectable, averaging 0.61 takedowns every 15 minutes with a 50% accuracy and defending approximately 68% of attempts. Seeing the stats, it is clear that Prochazka’s strategy relies heavily on dictating the fight through volume, creativity, and offensive pressure.

Khalil Rountree Jr., on the other hand, is a power striker with a somewhat lesser output, averaging 3.5-4 significant strikes per minute while maintaining 50% accuracy. He excels at time and distance control, favoring fight-ending strikes over sheer volume.

His striking defense is solid at over 50%, and his wrestling is effective, attempting one takedown per 15 minutes with 60-70% accuracy and defending 75-80% of them. The 35-year-old’s style aims to neutralize grappling threats, keeping the fight standing where he can utilize his knockout power.

How their styles clash in the Octagon

The stylistic battle between Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr. is fascinating. ‘The Czech Samurai’ uses unorthodox, high-pressure striking that combines Muay Thai, karate, and unique angles. He frequently keeps his hands low, depending on instinct and unpredictability, making him both elusive and volatile. His willingness to take damage in order to provide offensive pressure shows a finish-first mentality.

‘The War Horse’ is a more typical power striker who stands in a southpaw stance to optimize his powerful left hand and execute devastating low kicks. His approach is measured, with an emphasis on timing, distance, and powerful knockout shots rather than constant volume. Strong takedown defense allows him to keep the fight standing, where his strength is most effective to help him neutralise his opponent.

The contrast in styles is stark: Prochazka’s unpredictable, high-pressure volume versus Rountree’s precise, knockout-focused hitting. ‘BJP’ will operate at a fast pace and try to overwhelm with creativity, while Rountree Jr. will look for opportunities to take decisive power shots. Expect a striking-heavy battle characterized by pace, angles, and potential fight-ending moments.

Final Prediction: Who has the edge?

While ‘The War Horse’ brings experience, resilience, and raw power, Jiri Prochazka’s youth, unconventional style, and high-volume striking give him an advantage. In a stand-up fight, he is likely to outperform Rountree Jr. if he can maintain space, manage the tempo, and use his creativity well.

Rountree’s best chance is to land one of his explosive counter shots, but Prochazka’s unpredictability and relentless offense suggest he will win a close decision. UFC 320 promises a fast-paced, technical fight in which strategy, power, and timing collide, though Jiri Prochazka’s explosive striking is expected to decide the outcome in his favor.