Jiri Prochazka has announced plans to return to the octagon in the fall, targeting either Magomed Ankalaev or Paulo Costa as his opponent. The Czech fighter stated that it doesn't matter which opponent he faces, emphasizing that to be the best, you must be able to defeat anyone. Prochazka clarified that he named these two fighters not because they criticized his last performance, but because he believes they are the most likely available matchups at this time. This would mark Prochazka's return to competition after his most recent outing drew criticism from peers.
Jiri Prochazka has publicly set his sights on a fall return to the octagon, naming light heavyweight contender Magomed Ankalaev and middleweight Paulo Costa as his preferred opponents for that comeback.
The Czech standout carries a 32-6-1 record and sits ranked second in the light heavyweight division at 33 years old. Prochazka trains out of Jetsaam Gym Brno and brings a physically imposing frame to every fight — six-foot-three with an 80-inch reach. His offensive output is among the most relentless in the division, averaging 5.69 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy. He was clear in his reasoning for naming these two men, stating that it reflects who he views as the most realistic available matchups rather than any personal grievance over criticism of his last outing.
Ankalaev represents the most straightforward divisional logic of the two names. The Russian fighter from Gorets Fight Club holds the number-one ranking at light heavyweight and sits fifth in the pound-for-pound standings at 34 years old. He owns a 21-2-1 record and blends a steady striking output of 3.65 significant strikes per minute with solid wrestling, averaging 0.79 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Costa is a more unconventional target, given that the Brazilian competes at middleweight. Ranked 13th in that division at 35 years old, he carries a 16-4-0 record and is one of the sport's most prolific volume strikers, landing 6.26 significant strikes per minute at 58 percent accuracy.
Why it matters
- Prochazka versus Ankalaev would be an immediate title-eliminator or championship-level fight at 205 pounds
- A matchup with Costa would cross divisional lines, carrying significant style and narrative intrigue
- Prochazka's stated motivation — that beating the best means beating anyone put in front of him — signals he is not waiting for a specific path back to the top
