Jiri Prochazka Balances Title Fight and Fatherhood

UFC star prepares for vacant light heavyweight title bout as girlfriend awaits birth of their first child back home

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:52pm

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A cubist, multi-angled painting depicting the chaotic energy of a UFC title fight, with sharp planes of color and form representing the complex challenges a fighter faces both in and out of the Octagon.A UFC title fight takes on a new geometric, fragmented perspective as a fighter balances professional ambition and personal responsibilities.Today in Miami

UFC fighter Jiri Prochazka is set to face Carlos Ulberg for the vacant light heavyweight title at UFC 327 in Miami this Saturday. However, the timing of the title fight has created a unique challenge, as Prochazka's girlfriend, Kamila Kordulikova, is due to give birth to their first child back in the Czechia. Despite the distance, Prochazka remains focused on his title aspirations while also supporting Kordulikova through the final stages of her pregnancy.

Why it matters

Prochazka's title fight opportunity comes at a pivotal moment in his personal life, as he and his long-time girlfriend prepare to welcome their first child. The unique circumstances surrounding this title shot highlight the delicate balance elite fighters must maintain between their professional and family commitments.

The details

Prochazka had originally planned to wait until after the birth of his child before returning to the Octagon. However, the unexpected opportunity to fight for the vacant light heavyweight title prompted him to adjust his plans. Prochazka and Kordulikova have been together for nearly 12 years, and she has been a steadfast supporter of his MMA career. Despite the challenges of being apart during this crucial time, Prochazka remains confident in Kordulikova's ability to handle the birth of their child on her own.

  • Prochazka is set to fight Carlos Ulberg for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 327 on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Prochazka's girlfriend, Kamila Kordulikova, is due to give birth to their first child in the Czechia during the same time period.

The players

Jiri Prochazka

A former UFC light heavyweight champion who is set to fight for the vacant title at UFC 327.

Kamila Kordulikova

Jiri Prochazka's girlfriend, who is due to give birth to their first child in the Czechia while Prochazka is competing for the title.

Carlos Ulberg

Prochazka's opponent in the fight for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 327.

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What they’re saying

“I'm happy that we are both strong and focused on our missions. It's really powerful to have someone next to you who also believes in you.”

— Jiri Prochazka, UFC Fighter

“Jiri is set to fly away for the last three weeks of the pregnancy. So it's a bit mentally demanding... What awaits me now is probably a challenging period alone, because in this state, I can't go anywhere.”

— Kamila Kordulikova, Jiri Prochazka's Girlfriend

“Completely, it seems to me 100%. Especially all those relationship things. His approach to a lot of things has rapidly changed with such a big responsibility coming, so you need to direct some energy there. It definitely changed him a lot.”

— Kamila Kordulikova, Jiri Prochazka's Girlfriend

What’s next

Prochazka will compete for the vacant UFC light heavyweight title against Carlos Ulberg at UFC 327 on Saturday, April 12, 2026. If he wins, he will become the new UFC light heavyweight champion.

The takeaway

Jiri Prochazka's title fight opportunity at UFC 327 highlights the delicate balance elite fighters must maintain between their professional and personal lives. Despite the unique challenges of being away from his pregnant girlfriend during this crucial time, Prochazka remains focused on his title aspirations while also supporting Kordulikova through the final stages of her pregnancy.