Despite Winning $300K Bonus, Jiri Prochazka Says He Doesn’t Fight for Money

While Jiri Prochazka appreciates the $300,000 bonus he received for his UFC 300 performance, he insists that mixed martial artists don’t fight for money.

Prochazka scored a come-from-behind second round technical knockout win over Aleksandar Rakic on the UFC 300 preliminary card at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday. Prochazka also won one of two “Performance of the Night” bonuses, which was raised to $300,000 from $50,000 for the iconic card.

Known for his embodiment of the samurai mindset, Prochazka insists that he and all fighters fight to put on a show and not for money. However, “BJP” certainly appreciates the freedom to do good deeds that comes with money.

“You know I thought about that a few minutes ago when they told me that,” Prochazka told The Schmo. “For all the fighters, there is a point, we’re not fighting for the money, we’re fighting because it’s in our blood. It’s our will to win the fight, to make a best performance, not because of money. But with the money you are free and you can do good, so I appreciate it.”

Alex Pereira, who won the vacant light heavyweight title against Prochazka via knockout at UFC 295 this past November, defended his strap with a highlight reel first-round knockout win over former champ Jamahal Hill in the main event at UFC 300. Prochazka is now expected to get an opportunity to avenge his title loss against “Poatan” later this year. Judging by Pereira’s UFC 300 performance, Prochazka is already getting serious.

“Yes, I saw him, saw his performance, amazing,” Prochazka said. “And I have to say, now I’m starting to take it seriously. Because this is for me something what I want to achieve this victory. And when I want something I will achieve that. So watch me. I have to do some little upgrade on myself, to not catching some punches, to make a perfect storm with Alex.”