Jiri Prochazka says he was at 50% in loss to Carlos Ulberg

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Jiri Prochazka hasn’t faced much criticism in the UFC before, but that changed after his recent defeat to Carlos Ulberg.

Ulberg picked up the vacant light heavyweight belt with a decision win at UFC 327, battling through a leg injury that later required surgery.

In his immediate reaction to the fight, Prochazka said he held back out of respect for Ulberg’s injury, a comment that didn’t sit well with everyone.

Jiri Prochazka reflects on UFC 327: ‘I lost focus and waited for the fight to be stopped’

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Following the birth of his daughter, Jiri Prochazka promised to respond to his critics in due time, and he has now addressed them through a video posted on social media.

The former champion used the video to push back against what he called “nonsense” comments about his performance at UFC 327. He explained that once Carlos Ulberg suffered his leg injury, it took him out of his rhythm and focus.

“I can say for myself that I know from the moment that happened to him, I wasn’t at 100 percent anymore,” he said. “I was at maybe forty, fifty percent of my performance and I was just sparring and waiting for the referee to stop the fight at any moment.

“It was a big mistake, maybe one of the biggest. I don’t want to beat myself up about it nonstop because the most important thing is always to learn from it and move forward stronger.”

Carlos Ulberg was critical of Prochazka after the fight, particularly around comments suggesting he showed mercy during their bout. In response, Prochazka gave credit to Ulberg for fighting through his injury.

“I know what that’s like because this happened to me once in a fight in Japan,” Prochazka reflected. “I fought through that match but I know what it’s like – the pain, the struggle. So all credit to him for managing to keep a cool head, for catching me with that hook.”