Islam Makhachev has decided to play matchmaker following Jiri Prochazka’s come-from-behind victory against the returning Aleksandar Rakic at UFC 300 on Saturday.
Jiri Prochazka was returning after his vacant light heavyweight title loss to Alex Pereira back at UFC 295 in November. Aleksandar Rakic on the other hand was returning from a devastating injury, which saw him out on the sidelines for just under two years.
Jiri Prochazka comes from behind to beat Aleksandar Rakic in a crazy fight
Early on in the fight, Rakic looked extremely comfortable, finding early success with the calf kicks to the former champion’s lead leg.
The “Rocket” Rakic then began to land some extremely heavy shots behind his kicks which caused damage to Prochazka’s left eye.
After a solid round one, Rakic came into round two hoping for more of the same. Despite that, Prochazka began making the fight dirty and getting into the face of the 32-year-old.
After a crazy barrage of strikes, “The Last Samurai” wobbled Rakic and once he got the taste of blood, he didn’t take his foot off the gas. After some more heavy strikes, the Serbian dropped to the ground where Prochazka followed him.
From there, Rakic couldn’t recover or defend himself convincingly enough, and the referee put a stop to the beating.
Islam Makhachev calls for Magomed Ankalaev vs Jiri Prochazka next
UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, put on his matchmaker shoes and listed the fight he wants to see at 205lbs next.
“Ankalaev vs Prochazka next for the number one contender.” Islam Makhachev said on X.
Following his impressive win at UFC 300, Prochazka called for a title shot next, stating he wants to fight either Jamahal Hill or rematch Alex Pereira.
Despite that, he may find himself just one more win away from another title shot, and Magomed Ankalaev could be the perfect matchup.
Ankalaev has had an unlucky stint as of late, with two of his last three fights ending in a draw and a no-contest. Because of that, the Russian will also likely need another win before he is granted a title shot.