Sergei Pavlovich is expected to serve as the backup fighter in the upcoming UFC 295 main event between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, marking the second straight Jones title fight where Pavlovich is a potential alternate.
Sergei Pavlovich, a well-regarded heavyweight contender, is eager for his opportunity to fight for the UFC heavyweight title. While he waits for that chance, he plays a crucial role as a backup fighter for the highly anticipated bout between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic set for November. At 31 years old, the powerhouse from Russia is on an impressive six-fight winning streak in the UFC. This makes him a highly credible substitute for the UFC 295 main event between Jones and Miocic, set to take place at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York.
Pavlovich is no stranger to this role, as this will be his second consecutive time serving as a potential alternate in a Jon Jones title fight. He did exactly that when Jones returned to the octagon in March to contest for a new heavyweight championship against Ciryl Gane. Barring a loss to Alistair Overeem in his UFC debut, Pavlovich’s record has been stellar. He has demonstrated his explosive power and precision by claiming six knockout victories in a row, not a single opponent making it past the first round.
Demonstrating his formidable abilities, Pavlovich has shown dominant performances over the likes of one-time UFC heavyweight title contender Derrick Lewis, Curtis Blaydes, and Tai Tuivasa, in a remarkable feat, he has spent less than five minutes in total in the octagon against these opponents. As such, there is a strong argument that Pavlovich has earned his title shot. However, Jon Jones had specifically requested a bout with Miocic, a highly regarded competitor who holds the record as the longest reigning heavyweight champion in UFC history. Therefore, if Pavlovich doesn’t get a chance to compete in this November fight, he will be next in line for the victor of the anticipated match between Jones and Miocic in the year 2024.