Reinier de Ridder Critiques Jiri Prochazka's Perceived "Fake" Ninja Persona
Light heavyweight contender Reinier de Ridder has expressed his skepticism regarding Jiri Prochazka's unconventional approach and public persona, describing it as "fake" and "too much." Prochazka, a former UFC light heavyweight champion, is known for his unique training methods and adherence to the Bushido code, which have led some to believe his demeanor is over the top.
De Ridder, speaking with Mike Owens for Full Mount MMA, was asked to compare Prochazka with other top light heavyweights. He dismissed Prochazka, stating, "Nah, it’s definitely not Jiri." When pressed for his reasoning, the Dutch fighter elaborated on his discomfort with Prochazka's "ninja" image. "Jiri rubs me the wrong way with the ninja [expletive]," de Ridder admitted. "It’s too much, dude. It feels so fake. Nah, that’s not my guy."
The former two-division ONE Championship titleholder ranked Magomed Ankalaev as the most skilled in the division and predicted Ankalaev's victory in a potential bout against Carlos Ulberg. De Ridder himself is set to return to the light heavyweight division on August 22nd to face Roman Dolidze in Sacramento, with both fighters aiming to break a two-fight losing streak.
Prochazka's most recent performance in April saw him lose his chance to reclaim the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Despite his opponent, Ulberg, suffering an early ACL injury, Prochazka was knocked out in the first round.
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