Jiri Prochazka is sporting a different look than usual after shaving his head prior to UFC 311 but it’s all for a good cause.
The former UFC light heavyweight champion revealed that he actually shaved his head to show support to a young woman named Ashley McGarity, who is battling cervical cancer and lost her hair going through chemotherapy treatments.
Before she shaved off all of her hair, McGarity actually posted a photo showing that she cut her hair to match Prochazka’s infamous war braid that he’s sported for many of his biggest fights. Now Prochazka is returning the favor while making a donation to support cancer research as McGarity continues an even bigger fight for her life.
“This hair was inspired by Ashley,” Prochazka said. “That girl, she’s fighting with cancer. She will come tomorrow
“This is my showing solidarity. Because it’s about sending the good energy. Yesterday, I reached 1 million followers on Instagram so I will give for each other 1 million [Czech Koruna] by my foundation to oncologist patients. Martial arts has something to give back, it’s all about good energy.”
The donation Prochazka plans to make equals out to around $50,000 U.S. dollars and as a show of support, UFC CEO Dana White said he would match the donation with $50,000 dollars of his own.
McGarity is expected to sit cageside to watch Prochazka in his fight on Saturday when he competes on the main card against Jamahal Hill in a pivotal fight at 205 pounds.
Both athletes are coming off a loss to reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira with hopes that the winner could get back into title contention after UFC 311.
