Jiri Prochazka is keeping his unusual training habits as part of his preparation for a big fight. The former light heavyweight champion says his extreme methods help him face fear and stay calm ahead of UFC 327.
Unusual training and why he does it
Prochazka has long used unusual methods to push his body and mind. He has trekked alone in mountains without a map and swam beneath frozen lakes. He told the Dan Le Batard Show that his training is not about being “crazy” but about reaching a level above normal for top athletes.
He said, “Crazy for who? Maybe crazy for somebody who doesn’t know that. Every high-level athlete, the sport on the top level is not so healthy, not so usual, not so normal. That’s why we have to be a little bit above the normal line.”
Prochazka explained that these hardships are a way to confront fear and control his mind. “I like the challenges. It’s terrifying, but it’s about calm the mind in every aspect of your life,” he said. He compared trying extreme things for the first time to other life experiences: “Until that moment, you don’t know, you have just an imagination about that. But after that, you really know what it’s about.”
Heading into UFC 327
Prochazka will face Carlos Ulberg for the vacant light heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 327 this Saturday at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. The fight will decide the new champion in the 205-pound division.
Prochazka last fought at UFC 320 in October 2025, where he scored a knockout win over Khalil Rountree Jr. He holds a 6-2 record in the UFC. Both of his losses came against former champion Alex Pereira.
Maturity, fatherhood and changing habits
The 33-year-old Czech said becoming older and the prospect of fatherhood have given him new perspective. He admitted some past choices were reckless, especially solo mountain trips without proper planning.
He said he will keep doing challenges, but more safely and professionally. “I did many times, I just took the bag and all this equipment, and I just went to the mountains somewhere. I didn’t take a map, I just went to the mountains, and I lost myself, and I just tried to survive there for a few days, and it was not fun. It was just not funny. It just survives. This is not smart. This is really not smart, because you have to know the rules.”
Recent results
| Fighter | Recent Result |
|---|---|
| Jiri Prochazka | Knockout win over Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 320 (October 2025). UFC record 6-2; two losses to Alex Pereira. |
| Carlos Ulberg | Challenger for the vacant light heavyweight title; recent result not listed. |
Prochazka brings his unique training and steady confidence into the cage as he and Ulberg fight for the vacant title. Fans will see whether his extreme preparation helps him earn the belt this Saturday in Miami.
