Prochazka is one of one. With 31 finishes in 32 victories, “The Czech Samurai” is an all-time great in terms of pushing the pace and forcing the finish. There’s real craft to Prochazka’s seemingly wild offense, which is the reason he comes out on the right side of the stoppage far more often than not. Against a counter striker in Ulberg, measured aggression is the key. Though he’s known for being durable, Prochazka cannot sprint forward into Ulberg’s best punches right away and count on his chin — it might fail! At the same time, he cannot be overly patient, which cost him rounds against Khalil Rountree last time out. Again, there’s risk there, as Ulberg would have no qualms about out-pointing Prochazka for a decision win. “BJP” has to create avenues for his offense rather than rely on raw aggression. For example, Prochazka has recently been trying to draw out strikes from his opponent, allowing him to slip outside, then burst into his classic endless offense. Being first and third is good strategy, particularly if Prochazka is feinting well and getting a sense of Ulberg’s check hook.

In addition, there are opportunities to attack after kicks. Prochazka generally does nice work in sticking opponents with front kicks then stepping down into combinations, but he can also look to return fire immediately after checking/blocking an Ulberg kick. These off-beat moments are harder to time, allowing Prochazka safer opportunities to throw in volume. Ulberg is a very savvy counter striker, which can make him very frustrating for fans and opponents alike. Often, he’s perfectly content to win fights on the strength of his lead hand pokes and long kicks. If his opponents try to pressure past that range, Ulberg definitely has the power and timing to make them pay for their efforts. For all of his success, there are definitely proven paths to victory against Prochazka. Namely, his wide stance leaves him quite vulnerable to outside low kicks. I would love to see Ulberg switching stances with Prochazka to match him, making it easier to play the jab and low calf kick game. If Ulberg can dig at the lead leg(s) a few times early, it will go a long way in slowing Prochazka and making his blitzes more predictable.