Alex Pereira leans on Glover Teixeira for Jiri Prochazka bout

NEW YORK – Alex Pereira has tried to determine Jiri Prochazka. It’s definitely not straightforward, or even perhaps attainable.

In preparation for the big Czech gentle heavyweight at UFC 295, Pereira (8-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC) turned effectively acquainted with the bizarre and wild nature of Prochazka (29-3-1 MMA, 3-0 UFC).

“He’s positively a tough opponent,” Pereira informed MMA Junkie and different reporters by way of an interpreter on Wednesday at UFC 295 media day. “Unpredictable, sure, however all of the expertise I’ve in preventing and kickboxing, I’m going to be utilizing that within the struggle.”

A Glory Kickboxing Hall of Famer, Pereira will lean not solely on his personal expertise, however that of his coach and mentor, Glover Teixeira, too. Teixeira lost to Prochazka in the fifth round of an all-time struggle at UFC 275 in June 2022.

“It was positively a tough struggle,” Pereira stated. “Glover was profitable that struggle to the second he obtained submitted. Glover had all this expertise, and it’s essential for me. I’m not going to suppose this struggle goes to be straightforward as a result of Glover already fought him, however with Glover and the expertise he has, he’s already helped me. Regardless whether or not for this struggle or for the earlier struggle, he performs a giant a part of it.

Battle followers have taken a liking to Pereira and Prochazka not just for their violent preventing kinds however their distinctive personalities. Regardless of the general public disappointment of a Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic cancellation, Pereira thinks the anticipation of his title struggle Saturday at Madison Sq. Backyard continues to be palpable.

“I do know everyone is pumped for the struggle. I believe regardless if the principle occasion obtained pulled off or not,” Pereira stated. “I believe if the followers had the choice to get a refund, I don’t suppose they did as a result of everyone needs to observe this struggle.”

For extra on the cardboard, go to MMA Junkie’s occasion hub for UFC 295.