On July 26, 2025, Jon Jones was in Moscow as a guest of honor at an IBA Bare Knuckle tournament. But his visit took an unexpected turn, sparking a critical rivalry with none other than Sergei Pavlovich. What happened? As Jones extended his hand in greeting, Pavlovich instead reached out to shake another individual’s hand. Jones brushed off the awkward exchange, but Pavlovich didn’t let it slide.

The Russian later mocked him online, posting a clip of the moment to X with the caption, “Glad to meet you in Moscow.” It fueled speculation, especially since Jones took a retirement U-turn, hoping to make a UFC comeback with the White House event next year. Regardless, just weeks later, Pavlovich was back in action against Waldo Cortes-Acosta . Entering the fight after losing two of his

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