Jiri Prochazka explains why he rejects UFC End-of-Year Award
Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLCJordan EllisWed, January 14, 2026 at 6:47 PM UTC·2 min read
Jiri Prochazka has dismissed any suggestion that he was losing his fight against Khalil Rountree Jr., insisting he was always in control despite what the judges’ scorecards said.
The former light heavyweight champion finished Rountree Jr. in the third round at UFC 320, even though he’d dropped the opening two rounds on all three judges’ cards.
Despite being behind early, Prochazka pulled off a turnaround with a decisive finish. The 33-year-old has been recognized for his effort, picking up a Comeback of the Year award from the UFC.
Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
The UFC announced on X (formerly Twitter) that Jiri Prochazka had won the Comeback of the Year award, sharing a highlight clip from his fight.
But Prochazka didn’t agree with the recognition. He quickly replied to the post, explaining why he didn’t think his win over Khalil Rountree Jr. was a comeback.
“I watched that two days back, and here is my result: I controlled my opponent all the fight.
“Even if he was many times successful with his techniques, I controlled distance, rhythm, and precision of hits.”
He finished off his reply by making it clear that he’s focused on moving forward. “Now is time to make a step up and show it. LETSGOFORTHAT [crown].”
Jiri Prochazka has lost twice by knockout to Alex Pereira, the reigning UFC light heavyweight champion.
It looked like Prochazka would need another big win before getting another shot at the belt, but recent reports have linked him to a potential title fight against Carlos Ulberg.
Pereira is still the champion but there are rumours that he’s thinking about moving up to heavyweight.
Earlier this month, Prochazka spoke about where things stand regarding a possible title bout.
“All this information on the internet about me and Ulberg, it’s not true because the fight is not confirmed yet,” he said. “It’s still in negotiations and just for me, I can say I want to fight at the end of March because in April it is time for baby.
“This is the only one thing I can say and that I want to fight for a title, believe the official messages from UFC.”
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