Johnny Walker presented Jiri Prochazka with a surprise gift related to the Czech fighter's upcoming daughter. Jon Jones announced he has retired from fighting, stating there is no more fighter Jon Jones, only businessman Jon Jones. Paulo Costa changed his stance, now expressing hatred for Russian fighters and vowing to add more to his record after dealing with an unnamed opponent, with Khamzat Chimaev third on his list. Someone from Costa's team posted video showing him struggling to make 93 kg, notably different from his previous 84 kg weight class. Josh Haquit reportedly apologized after finishing a filming session, breaking character to acknowledge his antics.
The MMA world offered a mix of heartfelt moments and headline-grabbing declarations on April 11, 2026, as several prominent fighters made waves across social media.
Light heavyweight contender Johnny Walker surprised Jiri Prochazka with a gift ahead of the Czech fighter's daughter being born. The gesture drew attention for its warmth, offering a rare personal glimpse into the camaraderie that can exist between fighters who compete in the same division.
Prochazka, ranked second in the light heavyweight division at 33 years old, carries a 32-6-1 record and is one of the most dynamic strikers in the sport, landing 5.69 significant strikes per minute at a 55 percent accuracy rate. The Czech Republic native trains out of Jetsaam Gym Brno and stands six-foot-three with an 80-inch reach.
In a separate and far more striking announcement, Jon Jones declared on social media that he has retired from fighting. The 38-year-old, who holds a 28-1-0 record, stated there is no longer a fighter named Jon Jones — only a businessman. Jones stands six-foot-four with an 84-inch reach and has long been considered one of the most complete fighters in the sport's history.
Meanwhile, Paulo Costa took to social media with renewed aggression, reversing a previous stance and declaring open hostility toward Russian fighters. The Brazilian middleweight, ranked 13th at 35 years old with a 16-4-0 record, vowed to add more Russian opponents to his list of victims, naming Khamzat Chimaev as third in line after dealing with an unnamed current opponent. Video posted by a member of Costa's team showed him struggling to reach 93 kg — a notable contrast to his former fighting weight of 84 kg.
Why it matters
- Jones's retirement, if confirmed, would leave the heavyweight division without one of its most decorated names
- Costa's public callout of Chimaev adds pressure to a potential matchup between two high-output strikers
- Prochazka's personal moment humanizes a fighter expected to remain in light heavyweight title contention
