UFC light heavyweight Jiri Prochaska won hearts with a heartfelt gesture to a fan battling cancer. Former UFC light heavyweight champion Giri shaved his head for fans, showing off his new look ahead of UFC 311. Typically, the Czech Republic fighter is known for wearing special war braids during battles, which further enhances his intimidating appearance and personality.
Jiri took the action by shaving her head in solidarity with Ashley McGarrity, a young woman battling cervical cancer who lost her hair during chemotherapy. Before completely shaving his head, McGarrity had styled his hair to imitate Prochaska’s iconic war braids. This is the signature look he wore in some of his most memorable battles.
Also read: ‘The One and Only’ Amanda Rivas says repeating Amanda Nunes’ feat will be a challenge
In a touching gesture, Jiri stood by McGarrity’s side, shaved her own head and gave back by donating to support cancer research. The former light heavyweight champion also revealed that he plans to board McGarity’s plane to be cageside for their fight at UFC 311.
Jiri would argue that this was his way of showing that martial arts can give something back to society.
“This hair was inspired by Ashley,” Prochaska said, as quoted by MMA Fighting. “She’s fighting cancer. She’ll come tomorrow.”
“This is my expression of solidarity, because it is about sending good energy. Yesterday, I reached 1 million followers on Instagram, so from my foundation I would like to donate 1 million (Czech Koruna) to each other to the patients of the oncologist. ) Martial arts has something to offer, it’s all about good energy.
The UFC plans to share a video of Giri shaving his head, and President Dana White has decided to match his donation with 1 million Czech Koruna (approximately US$50,000).
Giri is scheduled to face Jamahal Hill during the UFC 311 event, and it will be an important match for both fighters. Jiri and Hill both have losses to current champion Alex Pereira and will be hoping a win will put them back in title contention.
