Prochazka admits he considered confronting Ankalaev and his manager after provocations

Jiri Prochazka in victory over Khalil Rountree. Photo: Reproduction/UFC News

Known for adopting a samurai spirit and avoiding provocations towards opponents and athletes in the same weight class, Jiri Prochazka demonstrates that he can sometimes be willing to deviate from the norm to resolve conflicts that bother him. A victim of attacks from Magomed Ankalaev, who called him a 'fraud' after winning the light heavyweight title (up to 93kg) in March of this year, the Czech fighter admitted that he considered abandoning social media and resorting to personal means.

Aware that Ali Abdelaziz is one of those responsible for managing Ankalaev's X account, Prochazka revealed that his coach prevented him from confronting the businessman and athlete after controversial statements.

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"Before this fight (UFC 320), I was prepared to go to his manager (Ali Abdelaziz) or Ankalaev and say to him, 'What the f*ck was that, what did you talk about? Why did you do that? I didn't attack you with anything, so why did you say that nonsense? My coach told me, 'Jiri, calm down. Don't focus on anyone else.' I'm glad I did. I don't like to focus on anyone else," Prochazka said in an interview with Ariel Helwani.

Magomed Ankalaev alongside Ali Abdelaziz. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @aliabdelaziz

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At the time of the incident, Prochazka stated that Ankalaev could say whatever came to mind, but that the only fraud between them was the Russian. The former champion added that his rival preached respect when he met him in person in Las Vegas, but that on social media, he would change his stance.

So far, Ankalaev and his manager have not commented on the Czech's speech.