Navajo Stirling on Jiri Prochazka's UFC Qatar Fight Acceptance
Navajo Stirling admits he was surprised Jiri Prochazka agreed to fight him at UFC Qatar.
Stirling is set to headline UFC Qatar against Prochazka on November 21 in what could be a title eliminator. Stirling remains undefeated at 11-0, with his latest win a TKO against Jan Blachowicz in August. He aims for a fourth win this year.
Prochazka, on the other hand, is coming off a KO loss to Carlos Ulberg, who is Stirling’s teammate. Stirling expressed surprise Prochazka accepted this bout, given its high stakes.
“He has a lot to lose. I have very little to lose and everything to gain, just like in my last fight. It would be quite risky for him to face another CKB fighter. He’s facing the same gym, same coaches, so we can break him down somewhat,” Stirling told Ariel Helwani.
Stirling pointed out that Prochazka faces pressure to win; a second consecutive loss could jeopardize his title contention status.
Navajo Stirling Discusses Potential Title Shot
While Stirling sees pressure on Prochazka, a victory for Stirling could lead to a title shot.
However, Stirling’s teammate and friend, Carlos Ulberg, currently holds the light heavyweight championship. This situation might force them to fight each other, placing them in an unusual position.
“If the UFC wants us to fight, the team will discuss it,” Stirling added. “We are all part of the same gym and management, so the decision rests with them. I’m unsure how I’d feel. It’s something I haven’t really considered, and I try not to. These conversations have come up, mostly in jest. We can’t resolve it until I win.”
Stirling enters UFC Qatar with a record of 11-0, including 6-0 in the UFC.
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