Czech fighter Jiri Prochazka has shaved his distinctive ponytail in help of a fan who’s present process therapy for most cancers.
The 32-year-old revealed his haircut at Thursday’s UFC 311 information convention, including he’s donating $50,000 (£41,000) to the fan – a determine which was then matched by UFC president Dana White.
Prochazka draws from a samurai code in his life inside and outdoors the octagon and his shaved head with a single, straight ponytail turned one among his logos.
“The hair was impressed by Ashley. That woman is combating with most cancers, she’s going to come tomorrow and that is exhibiting solidarity,” mentioned Prochazka.
The fan had beforehand emulated Prochazka’s ponytail after shedding her hair to chemotherapy.
Prochazka had noticed the image on-line in December and invited her to his light-heavyweight battle towards Jamahal Hill in Inglewood, California on Saturday.
In December, he responded to his fan by saying: “Each fighter ought to have battle hair.”
Talking about her expertise on Reddit, the fan mentioned Prochazka was her “favorite UFC fighter”.
“I had a variety of enjoyable doing this with my pal earlier than shaving all of it off,” she mentioned.
“Most cancers sucks, however you need to make the very best of it generally.”
Prochazka, a former UFC light-heavyweight champion, can safe one other shot on the belt with a win over rival contender Hill.
Brazilian star Alex Pereira at present holds the belt and each Hill and Prochazka have misplaced to the champion.
USA fighter Hill, 33, has spoken at size about his desire to fight Pereira again, however Prochazka says he’s solely targeted on the battle on Saturday.
“I’ll simply say that it is a massive mistake when you’re not targeted on what’s proper earlier than you, and also you’re on the lookout for one other opponent,” added Prochazka.
“It would price you a large number. Who’re you? It is nearly staying humble, staying targeted on what’s earlier than you.”
