Sergei Pavlovich KOs Teixeira in 39 Seconds at UFC Macao, Calls for Title Shot

Sergei Pavlovich delivered another brutal first-round statement at UFC Macao, stopping his opponent in just 39 seconds to extend his reputation as one of the heavyweight division's most dangerous finishers. After the bout, the Russian heavyweight spoke directly to Dana White, calling for either a title shot or a matchup against a top contender, and made clear he is willing to face whoever emerges from the bout between Ciryl Gane and Alex Pereira.

Pavlovich, now 20-3-0 and ranked third in the UFC heavyweight division, brings relentless finishing power to every fight. The 34-year-old southpaw out of Eagles MMA stands six-foot-three with a remarkable 84-inch reach — the longest among the division's current top contenders — and has not recorded a single submission attempt in his UFC career, leaving no doubt about how he intends to end fights. His 44 percent striking accuracy reflects a puncher who loads up on every shot.

Ranked second in the heavyweight division at 14-2-0, Ciryl Gane represents the other side of the equation Pavlovich referenced post-fight. The 36-year-old Frenchman from MMA Factory is one of the more technical heavyweights in the sport, landing 5.29 significant strikes per minute at 61 percent accuracy — elite efficiency for the division. Standing six-foot-four with an 81-inch reach, "Bon Gamin" presents a considerable stylistic puzzle for any opponent.

Why it matters

• Pavlovich's 39-second finish strengthens his case as the most dangerous heavyweight not currently holding a belt
• His 84-inch reach gives him a physical edge over both Gane and most divisional rivals
• A Gane versus Pereira outcome now directly determines Pavlovich's next likely opponent
• The call-out keeps pressure on UFC matchmakers with the heavyweight title picture still unsettled