Jiri Prochazka, Rizin’s reigning Light Heavyweight champion, has signed an exclusive contract with the UFC according to multiple sources. Rizin CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara writes, “Rizin Light Heavyweight Champion Jiri Prochazka has relinquished his title and has signed with the UFC. We respect his decision and wish him the best of luck his new endeavor…”
Prochazka is on a 10 fight winning streak and at only 27 years old, is arriving in the UFC in the prime of his career.
It is not yet known how the title will be contested, however with Rizin’s preference to hold Grand Prix tournaments and their recent involvement with Bellator, there are quite a few interesting options for the Japanese promotion to consider.