Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka reclaiming gold at UFC 327 could present problems, according to a top analyst.
One of the most intriguing fights of the year takes place in the UFC 327 headliner, as Jiri Prochazka and Carlos Ulberg square off in a vacant light heavyweight title fight. The booking came to fruition after Alex Pereira vacated the title to make the full-time move to the heavyweight division.
It’s a quick move back into a light heavyweight championship opportunity for Prochazka, following two losses to Pereira and impressive wins against the likes of Khalil Rountree Jr. and Jamahal Hill. For Ulberg, the streaking Australian powerhouse is looking to kick off a new era in the light heavyweight division.
If Prochazka wins at UFC 327, it’ll be the culmination of a gritty return to the throne for the fan favorite. But one analyst believes Prochazka winning at UFC 327 could present the matchmakers with a unique problem.
Alan Jouban: Jiri Prochazka title win ‘a tough sell’ after recent struggles
In a recent interview with MMA Junkie, UFC analyst Alan Jouban admitted that a Prochazka title win could present some marketing issues.
“It’s a tough sell,” Jouban said of Prochazka.
“We love him. And we’re always going to watch his fights. You can always put him in a main event. But is he the best in the world when he’s obviously lost to the best guy in the world numerous times? It’s a tough sell.”
Jouban went on to admit that an Ulberg title win at UFC 328 would produce a slightly different outcome.
“Ulberg, as good as he is, and as good looking as he is, and all the ladies love him – he’s the hot guy in the UFC right now. He puts me to shame,” Jouban said of Ulberg vs. Prochazka.
“But he doesn’t carry the name value for me right now yet. He doesn’t. And when you look at that last fight that he had, and you look at the press, the build-up, the lead-up with him vs. Dominick Reyes, it was crickets. There was nothing happening.
“It was one of the worst – and I say this respectfully – it was one of the worst promotions we’ve seen by two fighters,” Jouban continued. “It was crickets. They couldn’t say anything exciting.”
What is your prediction for Jiri Prochazka vs. Carlos Ulberg? Let us know in the comments!