Daniel Cormier warns Jiri Prochazka against using Aleksandar Rakic fight strategy in Alex Pereira rematch: "You'll get knocked out"

Jiri Prochazka is set to make his return to the octagon this weekend as he challenges Alex Pereira for the light heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 303. It will mark his first bout since his comeback second-round TKO victory over Aleksandar Rakic at UFC 300. Daniel Cormier warned Prochazka against implementing the same strategy against the champion.

Speaking on ESPN's UFC 303 preview show, the UFC Hall of Famer stated:

"Prochazka just decided against Rakic that tonight it's not happening and even though he was beat up from the leg kicks, he just went and attacked him. You can not do that against Alex Pereira. You've got to be more cautious."

He continued:

"When Jiri fought Rakic, he just said, 'I'm not getting beat by you,' and he just kind of walked him down and knocked him out. You can not do that against Alex. You'll get knocked out."

Check out Daniel Cormier's comments on Jiri Prochazka's strategy ahead of UFC 303 below (starting at the 2:18 mark):

Rakic landed 36 significant strikes in the first round of his bout with Prochazka - 20 more than his opponent. 17 of those came via leg kick as 'Denisa' did not appear to make an effort to defend the strikes. While his legs looked clearly affected due to the damage, the No.1-ranked light heavyweight contender was able to bounce back in the second round and pick up a TKO finish.

Jiri Prochazka reveals why he accepted a short-notice bout against Alex Pereira

Jiri Prochazka solidified his status as the top contender in the light heavyweight division with his UFC 300 victory over Aleksandar Rakic. While he could have waited for the title opportunity, he accepted the opportunity to face Alex Pereira at UFC 303 on just over two weeks' notice after the original main event between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler fell through.

Speaking to Ariel Helwani of The MMA Hour, the No.1-ranked light heavyweight explained his decision, stating:

"It doesn't matter. Last chance, first chance, it doesn't matter. I am a yes man. I am the yes man and I believe in the chances and I believe in the spontaneous decisions."

Check out Jiri Prochazka's comments on accepting a short-notice clash against Alex Pereira below:

Prochazka will look to get revenge against Pereira after suffering a second-round TKO loss to him when they clashed for the vacant light heavyweight title at UFC 295 last November. While there have been suggestions that the bout was stopped early, 'Denisa' will have the opportunity to reclaim the light heavyweight title that he vacated with a shoulder injury about a year before his return against 'Poatan'.