One of the most dangerous heavyweights on the current UFC roster is Sergei Pavlovich. The legendary Russian MMA fighter is well-known for his lethal striking abilities, especially his renowned KO power. He’s participated in 18 professional MMA fights, going 17 wins to 1 loss.
14 of his 17 victories have been by KO/TKO, and three have been by decision. His lone loss was to Alistair Overeem in November 2018 through first-round Knockout. Sergey Pavlovich has caused chaos in the UFC heavyweight class ever since his defeat by Overeem in 2018. Currently, professional MMA fighter Pavlovich has an 82.35% knockout rate.
The UFC enlisted the rising heavyweight star to fill in as the backup or replacement fighter for the crucial heavyweight title match between Jon Jones and Ciryl Gane at UFC 285. For UFC 285, Pavlovich made weight successfully, weighing in at 259 pounds.
At UFC 285, his services weren’t required, though. This was due to the fact that the Jones-Gane fight took place on March 4 at UFC 285 as scheduled. The battle was won by former UFC light heavyweight champion and MMA star Jones through first-round submission, making him the new heavyweight champion of the organisation.
Is a UFC heavyweight title shot on the horizon for Sergei Pavlovich?
Sergei Pavlovich is now ranked third among heavyweights in the official UFC rankings, while Curtis Blaydes is currently ranked fourth. According to reports, a five-round heavyweight matchup between the 30-year-old Pavlovich and the 32-year-old Blaydes is planned. On April 22, 2023, the main event of UFC Fight Night 222 will feature the heavyweight contest between Pavlovich and Blaydes. During the UFC’s International Fight Week, possibly at UFC 290 on July 8th, reigning heavyweight champion Jon Jones is anticipated to defend his title against MMA legend and former heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic. In relation to that, it’s thought that the next heavyweight match between Pavlovich and “Razor” may have title ramifications.
In his most recent fight, Tai Tuivasa was knocked out in the first round by Sergei Pavlovich in December 2022. On the other hand, Blaydes recently defeated Tom Aspinall via first-round Knockout. Blaydes is now on a three-fight winning run while Pavlovich is currently on a five-fight winning streak.
The Pavlovich vs. Blaydes victor may face the Jones vs. Miocic victor for the UFC heavyweight championship later this year given the factors outlined above in play.
