Jiří Procházka’s Heartfelt Gesture: A Story of Inspiration and Solidarity
In the world of sports, moments of genuine human connection can sometimes transcend the competition itself. Such was the case when Jiří Procházka, a beloved figure in the UFC, took to the stage at the UFC 311 news conference at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Fans were eagerly anticipating his upcoming bout against former light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill on Saturday. However, it wasn’t just his fighting skills that captured the audience’s attention this time.
Procházka, known for his distinctive “war braid,” surprised everyone by revealing a clean-shaven head. The reason behind this transformation was both touching and profound. “This hair was inspired by Ashly,” Procházka explained, referring to Ashly McGarity, a fan battling cervical cancer. “That girl, she’s fighting with cancer. She will come tomorrow.”
Ashly McGarity’s journey began in September when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. Facing a radical hysterectomy and the prospect of chemotherapy, McGarity knew she would lose her hair. Yet, she chose to face this challenge with humor and resilience. “I wasn’t sure how I was going to handle it,” McGarity shared with ESPN. “My personality is humor and that was going to be the way that I handled it. I said that if I was going to do this, I may as well have some fun with it.”
In a show of solidarity with her favorite UFC fighter, McGarity shaved the sides of her head, leaving a top ponytail reminiscent of Procházka’s signature style. She posted a picture of her new look on Reddit, captioned: “Lost my hair to chemo — not before celebrating my favorite UFC fighter!” The post quickly went viral, catching the attention of Procházka himself.
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) December 15, 2024
Procházka, moved by McGarity’s story, decided to reach out to her. He invited her to travel from King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, to Los Angeles to watch his fight against Hill. “This is an honor for me,” Procházka expressed. “She could have picked anybody as her favorite fighter, and it is an honor that I am the one who she picked. Now I have to give her some strength and show her that we are here to lead and help each other.”
McGarity’s admiration for Procházka began during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when she became an avid UFC fan. She was drawn to Procházka’s unique fighting style and his adherence to Bushido principles, which emphasize values such as courage, self-control, and honor. “I started focusing on him, who he is as a person and how he lives outside of the Octagon,” McGarity said. “From the way he handles himself on social media to how he speaks in his interviews, I really appreciate that kind of person.”
Despite attending several fight cards over the years, McGarity had never seen Procházka in person. Her cancer diagnosis made her doubt if she ever would. However, Procházka’s gesture changed everything. He wanted to do more than just acknowledge her on social media; he wanted to show his appreciation and support.
“This is my showing solidarity,” Procházka said of his shaven head. “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.”
One million Czech koruna is nearly $41,000, and Procházka’s generosity inspired UFC CEO Dana White to match his donation. The two will meet formally backstage at the UFC 311 ceremonial weigh-ins, and McGarity will have a prime seat to watch her favorite fighter in action.
Nothing but class 👏 @Jiri_BJP shaving his head for #UFC311 in honour of Ashly McGarity! pic.twitter.com/iHx6iqgDkg
— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) January 17, 2025
For McGarity, the support from Procházka and others has been overwhelming. “I’m in the middle of my journey right now,” she said, noting that she is still undergoing chemotherapy and halfway through radiation treatments. “Unfortunately, my kind of cancer is a pretty aggressive strain. I am dealing with the beast of all beasts and it’s been hard physically and mentally but I’m proud of myself for having the mindset that I have had because I could have easily fallen into a hole of depression.”
While her battle with cancer continues, McGarity finds solace in the opportunity to support Procházka. “The cancer took my fertility and my hair, but it cannot take my sense of humor or my spirit,” she said. “This has been an intense time but getting to meet my favorite fighter has really helped the process.”
- Jiří Procházka’s gesture highlights the power of sports to inspire and connect people.
- Ashly McGarity’s story is a testament to resilience and the human spirit.
- The UFC community rallies around a fan in need, showcasing the sport’s heart.
Originally Written by: Andreas Hale
