In such a brutal and violent sport as Mixed Martial Arts, there usually aren't many feel good stories to write home about, although this one always brings a tear to the eye.
In December, UFC superfan Ashly McGarity went viral after copying Jiri Prochazka's infamous hairstyle before receiving another round of chemotherapy for her cancer treatment.
It didn't take long for that story to reach BJP, who ahead of his huge light-heavyweight fight at UFC 311 not only shaved his own head in solidarity, but flew Ashly to LA to watch him compete.
Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Healthy 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 would match Jiri Prochazka's $50,000 donation towards her treatment.
The former light heavyweight champion will face Jamahal Hill on the main card of UFC 311 and had the opportunity to meet his inspirational superfan for the first time after last night's ceremonial weigh-ins.
“I didn't expect that last night, so that was very special,” Ashly told the UFC cameras, with Jiri Prochazka having shaved off his infamous haircut in solidarity with the young woman.
“Oh my god, I'm honored to meet you, what you did last night was so special – I didn't expect that… And also thank you for all your kind words, I really appreciate it.
“I believe it will help as much as possible,” said BJP, keen to make it clear that its decision is “because that is what we are doing, by sending out good energy everywhere.”
Chemotherapy remains one of the toughest trials, emotionally and physically, that anyone can go through, with Ashly pointing out that the resulting hair loss is “Especially [tough] for women; men shave their heads and that's normal, but for us.”
“You're a good one, you're a good one,” smiled the UFC fighter, who will look to make it a night to remember with his second straight victory inside the octagon later in the evening.
UFC legend Michael Bisping shares bold prediction for Prochazka vs Hill
While Michael Bisping declined to make a definitive prediction on who will win this upcoming fight, the UFC icon “guaranteed” that Prochazka vs Hill will end in a viral knockout.
“Jamahal Hill has done a great job of turning the fanbase against him, but the way I look at it is he has a chip on his shoulder… He's annoyed, embarrassed and angry. And those emotions can 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 victory for the Czech Samurai.
“And on the other hand, Jiří Procházka; the Samurai… He has a wild style, insanely aggressive, unpredictable… I can't wait for this fight – this could be 'Fight of the Night' while it lasts, it will be one of the most exciting fights ever you've ever had to see.
“And someone will pass out, I guarantee it!”
Prochazka vs Hill sets up two fantastic world championship fights; including another title showdown, with Renato Moicano replacing the injured Arman Tsarukyan.
UFC 311 kicks off in just a few hours!
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