Wholesome footage shows Jiri Prochazka meeting cancer sufferer who inspired him to shave his head for UFC 311
01/18/2025 08:39 AM
In such a vicious and violent sport as Mixed Martial Arts, there typically aren't many 'feel good' stories to write home about, although this one never fails to bring a tear to the eye.
Back in December, UFC super-fan Ashly McGarity went viral after she copied Jiri Prochazka's infamous hairstyle before facing another round of chemotherapy for her cancer treatment.
It didn't take long for that story to reach BJP, who ahead of his enormous light heavyweight fight at UFC 311, has not only shaved his own head in solidarity but has flown Ashly out to LA to watch him compete.
Wholesome Jiri Prochazka meets Ashly McGarity ahead of UFC 311
The story of Ashly's battle with cancer has touched the hearts of UFC fans around the world, with Dana White announcing at the pre-fight press conference that he'd match Jiri Prochazka's $50,000 donation for her treatment.
The former light heavyweight champion is set to face Jamahal Hill on the main card of UFC 311 and after last night’s ceremonial weigh-ins, got the opportunity to meet his inspirational super-fan for the first time.
"I did not expect that last night, so that was really special," Ashly told the UFC cameras, with Jiri Prochazka having shaved off his infamous hairdo in solidarity with the young woman.
"Oh my god, I'm honored to meet you, that was so special what you did last night – I did not expect that… And thank you for all your kind words too, I really appreciate it.
"I believe that it will help as much as possible," said BJP, who was keen to drive home the fact that his decision is "because that's why we do that, sending out good energy everywhere."
Chemotherapy remains one of the toughest ordeals, emotionally and physically, that someone can go through, with Ashly pointing out that the consequential hair loss is "Especially [tough] for women; men shave their heads and it's just normal, but for us."
"You're a good one, you're good," smiled the UFC fighter, who is looking to make it a night to remember with his second consecutive victory in the octagon, later this evening.
UFC legend Michael Bisping shares bold prediction for Prochazka vs Hill
Whilst Michael Bisping refused to make a definitive prediction as to who'll win this incoming bout, the UFC icon "guaranteed" that Prochazka vs Hill will end in a viral knockout.
"Jamahal Hill has been doing a great job at turning the fanbase against him, but the way I look at that is he has a chip on his shoulder… He's annoyed, embarrassed, and mad. And those emotions could help you!"
Prochazka remains a slight underdog to Jamahal Hill, although he certainly has the fans on his side with a whopping 65% of Tapology users predicting a win for the Czech Samurai.
"And on the flip side, Jiří Procházka; the Samurai… He's got a wild style, crazy aggressive, unpredictable… I cannot wait for this fight – this could be 'Fight of the Night' as long as it lasts, it's going to be one of the most exciting fights you're ever going to see.
"And somebody is going to get knocked out cold, I guarantee it!"
Prochazka vs Hill leads into two fantastic world championship fights; including one new-look title showdown, with Renato Moicano stepping in for the injured Arman Tsarukyan.
UFC 311 starts in just a few hours!
