Jiri Prochajka embodies the warrior spirit. The former UFC lightweight champion from the Czech Republic lives by the Japanese code of busido, a samurai code of conduct. He draws inspiration from Miyamoto Musashi’s classic martial arts book ‘The Book of the Five Rings’. This unwavering commitment to the fight propelled Prochazka into UFC competition in just his third fight in the promotion. But her success is also down to her loyal coaches and the gyms where she hones her skills.
From Gangsters to Champions
Prochazka’s martial arts journey began in an unexpected place. Once a football fanatic he engaged in organized brawls with rival fans, sometimes engaging in violent brawls 30 and 30. This backlash gave his transition to martial arts seemed almost natural. A pivotal moment came when he saw the 2008 film ‘Never Back Down’, which inspired him to start kickboxing and eventually MMA.
Training Center
Prochazka turned professional in 2012 and continued his MMA career on the European circuit. Since the beginning of his journey, he has trained at Jetsam Gymnasium in Brno, Czech Republic. His training team includes head coach and kickboxing coach Martin Karaivnov, MMA coach Jaroslav Hovejak and strength and conditioning coach Zdenek Dohnal.
If he is in the U.S. a, Prochazka trains with the famous Extreme Couture team. After recovering from a shoulder injury last year, he also trained at Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA in Phuket, Thailand, and at Mjolnir gym in Iceland.
Prochazka’s Teachers
Prochazka’s success has a lot to do with her coaches. His head coach and kickboxing coach, Martin Karaivnov, became a guiding force in his career. He received his M.A.
Teammates at the Jetsam gym
When Jetsam Gym isn’t hosting other UFC fighters, Prochazka trains with a formidable team of teammates. Fighters like Petr Bernek, Andrzej Kalasnik and Jan Gottwald are his regular training partners. These competitive meets help sharpen his skills and keep him at the top of his game.
Training at Xtreme Couture
In the U.S. the Prochazka trains with some of the biggest names in MMA at Xtreme Couture. His teammates include former middleweight champion Sean Strickland, former heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou and former women’s bantamweight champion Miesha Tate. Notably, former light-heavyweight title contender and possible future opponent Magomed Ankalaev is also part of the Xtreme Couture team. This diverse and elite training environment gives Prochazka a wealth of experience and knowledge.
Training Abroad
Prochazka’s commitment to development takes him around the world. His time at Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA in Thailand and Mjolnir gym in Iceland expanded his training style and exposed him to different fighting styles This global approach ensures that Prochajka remains a versatile fighter and unpredictable inside the Octagon.
The Way of a Warrior
Jiri Prochazka’s journey from football hooligan to UFC champion is a testament to his fighting spirit and dedication to fighting. Guided by the principles of Busido and inspired by the teachings of Miyamoto Musashi, Prochazka has become a formidable force in the UFC. His success is a combination of his inner drive, the support of his coaches, and the challenging training environment he is involved in. As Prochazka continues to train and improve, MMA .
