Jiri Prochazka reveals unusual reason why he got his master’s degree before UFC 320 fight

Jiri Prochazka, the former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, demonstrates a clear sense of purpose as he prepares for his much-anticipated comeback at UFC 320 this weekend. He is slated to compete against Khalil Rountree Jr. on the main pay-per-view card.

His last appearance in the Octagon in January showcased a significantly improved Jiri Prochazka. At UFC 311, he delivered a masterful performance, securing a victory by strikes over former champion Jamahal Hill, thus rebounding impressively from a TKO defeat to then-champion Alex Pereira.

After this decisive win, Prochazka made the notable decision to forego a major title bout against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 317. His commitment was to his university exams, culminating in him earning a master’s degree in security and strategic studies.

This prompts the intriguing question: what motivated Prochazka, currently ranked #2 in the UFC light heavyweight division, to pursue a master’s degree with such dedication?

Prochazka`s Unexpected Educational Edge

Jiri Prochazka is constantly seeking competitive advantages in his UFC career. Known for his highly unconventional training methods that often draw considerable attention, the former champion recently disclosed that his pursuit of a master’s degree was directly aimed at fostering greater intelligence within the cage.

During UFC 320 media day, Prochazka reflected on the transformative impact of his studies, stating, “In one month, I totally changed my life.” He extended this sentiment to everyone, advising, “doesn’t matter what you are learning. If it’s college or university or high school, just do that.” For fighters specifically, he elaborated on its utility: “it’s much more useful because we need to work with our head because the punches first, and the second one, the strategy and tactics in the fight.”

Prochazka candidly admitted that the actual master’s degree held little intrinsic value for him. “I really don’t care about the master’s degree,” he clarified. “It’s not about the master’s degree. It’s all about to work [in UFC], to work here, to use your memory, use all these things. This is [what it’s] all about.” His true objective was the cognitive training and mental development gained from the process.

Prochazka`s Impressive Career Trajectory

Khalil Rountree Jr. faces a significant challenge at UFC 320. Prochazka has consistently demonstrated his prowess as one of the world`s premier light heavyweights, holding an exceptional 15-2 record since his 2015 defeat to former Strikeforce Champion Muhammed Lawal, a loss he subsequently avenged.

Prochazka built an impressive 13-fight winning streak before suffering his first UFC loss to former champion Alex Pereira at UFC 295 in 2023. Although both fighters secured wins at UFC 300, a subsequent rematch between Pereira and Prochazka occurred months later, where Pereira claimed a flawless second-round TKO victory at UFC 303.

Aside from these encounters, Prochazka has finished every other opponent the UFC has presented him with.