Prochazka denies confirmed fight booking after UFC 327 knockout loss to Ulberg

Jiri Prochazka has publicly denied reports that his next UFC fight has been officially confirmed, posting a blunt Instagram statement on Sunday that urged fans to ignore online speculation: “Just don’t believe to every bullshit on internet. Fight is not confirmed yet, still working on that.”

The former light heavyweight champion has been out of action since April’s UFC 327, where he suffered a shocking knockout loss to Carlos Ulberg. The defeat was particularly painful given the circumstances — Ulberg had sustained a knee injury during the fight and appeared to be in serious trouble before landing a devastating punch to claim the vacant title. Ulberg, however, has not competed since, sidelined by a torn ACL, making Prochazka the more likely of the two to return to the octagon first.

It remains unclear precisely which rumour Prochazka was addressing, but speculation has circulated on social media linking him to a bout with former middleweight contender Paulo Costa. Costa made a successful move up to light heavyweight at UFC 327, knocking out Azamat Murzakanov to become the first fighter to defeat “The Professional” — a performance that raised his profile considerably at 205 pounds.

In his Instagram post, Prochazka offered a glimpse into his current mindset, striking a measured and reflective tone despite the online noise. “I want my preparation to be truly thorough — to break everything down — and to start from the roots that have long been a part of me,” he wrote. “There are still levels that can be reached, and right now I am very grateful to see them clearly.”

Five numbered UFC events remain on the 2026 calendar. UFC 334 is set for New York on November 14, and UFC 335 is scheduled for Las Vegas on December 12. UFC 331 in September is considered an unlikely destination given its already packed card, but UFC 332 on October 3 in Salt Lake City — which still requires headline bouts — has emerged as a plausible landing spot for Prochazka’s comeback.