Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka sparked intense emotion at the pre-UFC 311 press conference.
Sporting a completely shaved head, the Czech fighter revealed that it was a strong gesture to support his biggest fan. A fan currently battling cancer. On Saturday night, Jiri Prochazka will face Jamahal Hill in a highly anticipated fight at UFC 311. A crucial opportunity for the former light heavyweight champion to bounce back from a knockout loss to Alex Pereira. However, it was well before entering the Octagon that the Czech had already made an impression. During the pre-fight press conference, Prochazka appeared with a shaved head, a symbolic choice to show his support for a fan particularly dear to his heart and to raise awareness about the fight against cancer.
“It’s a declaration of love and support”
Speaking to the media, Jiri Prochazka explained the significance of his gesture. Indeed, it was a young woman courageously fighting cancer who motivated him. Touched by his fight, Prochazka wanted to show that he was at his side. “I want my fan to know that I am with her in this ordeal. Shaving her head is nothing compared to what she endures every day.”. The Czech took this opportunity to make a donation of 1 million Czech crowns, equivalent to 50,000 dollars: “Yesterday I got 1 million followers so I’m going to donate 1 million crowns to my foundation for oncology patients. Martial arts is also about giving back ». For this gesture, Dana White immediately announced: “Are you going to give that $50,000?” I match this amount I also give 50,000 dollars to reach this mark of 100,000 dollars. »
For Prochazka, it was important to move beyond words to action. “The fight is not limited to the Octagon. We must all use our influence to help others, especially those who are fighting battles much harder than ours. »
-So, as he prepares to face Jamahal Hill, the Czech has already achieved a different kind of victory, that of humanity and compassion. The public greeted this action with enthusiasm, showing their approval with cheers and shouts.
With public support, does Jiri Prochazka have an advantage over Jamahal Hill?
