Sean O'Malley tries out Jiri Prochazka's training methods

Sean O'Malley has been experimenting with the unconventional training methods of light heavyweight contender Jiri Prochazka, sharing footage of himself attempting the Czech fighter's distinctive preparation techniques on social media.

O'Malley, known in the bantamweight division as "Suga," carries a 20-3-0 record and is currently ranked fourth at 135 pounds. The 31-year-old American trains out of MMA Lab and has built his reputation on sharp striking, landing 6.05 significant strikes per minute at a 60 percent accuracy rate — numbers that rank among the more efficient in his division. He fights out of a switch stance and stands five-foot-eleven with a 72-inch reach.

Prochazka, the man whose methods O'Malley is borrowing, is a 33-year-old Czech fighter ranked second in the light heavyweight division with a 32-6-1 record. Operating out of Jetsaam Gym Brno, the six-foot-three orthodox striker has long been recognized for an unorthodox approach to training camps that sets him apart from conventional MMA preparation. His output inside the cage reflects that unconventional foundation — he lands 5.69 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy and carries an 80-inch reach that makes him a difficult puzzle for any opponent.

Why it matters

• O'Malley's willingness to pull from a different weight class and fighting style signals a deliberate effort to evolve his preparation
• Prochazka's training philosophy has attracted attention across the sport, and its influence now appears to be crossing divisional lines
• Any refinement to O'Malley's already high-output striking game could have implications as he looks to work back toward the top of the bantamweight rankings