Jiri Prochazka and Alex Pereira saved the main event of UFC 303 by stepping in for a short-notice light heavyweight title clash. Ahead of the fight, the hype is enormous. It went to a whole new level when Prochazka accused Pereira of using Shamanic magic to win fights. However, Dana White has a different opinion on the whole situation.
Jiri Prochazka is well known for his distinct training methods, including being alone, training in the wilderness, etc. In a backstage interview ahead of UFC 303, Dana White was asked about the accusations. While responding, the UFC CEO revealed that the Czech fighter was in his three-day isolation routine when they asked about the short-notice title fight.Â
When Jiri found out about the fight, apparently he goes into a shed for three days… No water, no food, no nothing, and prays or meditates or whatever he does. Apparently, his coach went and banged on the door and told him that this fight was available and he said something to the effect of, ‘If this is what the universe wants.’
Dana White via The Mac Life YouTube channel
Prochazka’s isolation method requires no food and no light for three days. The fighter has revealed that it helps him to visualize his opponents ahead of the fights. According to White, Prochazka has an extremely unique training system similar to Alex Pereira’s use of tribal techniques to enter the fighting mindset. White claimed that the narratives on both sides just heightened the intrigue of the entire matchup.
Alex Pereira is well-connected to his Brazilian tribal roots. The fighter is from the indigenous Pataxo tribe and proudly showcases it through various pre-fight rituals. Pereira is known for painting his face and wearing his tribal attire during his face-offs. However, after hearing about Jiri Prochazka’s accusations, ‘Poatan’ had a befitting reply.
Alex Pereira denies Jiri Prochazka’s request not to use his tribal ritualsÂ
Jiri Prochazka’s strange comments about Alex Pereira using mysticism and spirits to win fights did not go over well with the MMA community. On top of that, Prochazka recommended that Pereira not utilize it and instead fight fairly. However, Pereira does not appear to agree with this.Â
Alex Pereira responds to Jiri Prochazka’s accusations of using magic (via BJ PENN)During the pre-fight press conference, Alex Pereira went all out and mentioned that his tribal traditions inspire him. The light heavyweight champion rubbed it on Prochazka by mentioning that, unlike the Czech, he has awakened his spirits. Check out what Poatan said below:Â
Apart from all the magic and accusations, both fighters are thrilled for their short-notice title rematch. The last time the pair met at UFC 295, it took Pereira two rounds to drop his opponent and win the fight. However, the Czech fighter is confident to stop the reigning champion at any cost this time.
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