Sergei Pavlovich Heritage, Nationality, and Religion: Is the UFC Heavyweight Christian?

Before joining the UFC, Sergei Pavlovich looked every bit like a force of nature. He tore through his first six opponents without letting any of them escape the opening round, eventually claiming the Fight Nights Global heavyweight title. After one successful defense, he stepped onto the sport’s grandest stage—the UFC. But his debut didn’t mirror his prior dominance, getting stopped in the first round by Alistair Overeem. Still, fortunes change.

Pavlovich went on a devastating run, tearing through six straight opponents with first-round knockouts—until Tom Aspinall handed him a taste of his own medicine in their title fight. Looking to rebound, Pavlovich instead ran into another setback. Now 33, Pavlovich has regained his footing and is determined to add a win to his record against Waldo Cortes-Acosta at Fight Night 257. But along this turbulent journey, what did you really learn about his background?

Sergei Pavlovich’s Ethnic Heritage and Nationality

Born in a rural settlement in Orlovsky, Rostov Oblast, Russia, Sergei Pavlovich began his journey to the UFC pretty early in his life, although he might not have known it at the time. Training in Greco-Roman wrestling at the mere age of five, ‘The White Francis Ngannou’ learned his craft under coach Alexander Fedorovich Aloyan and continued until the 12th grade.

Pavlovich, who is believed to have a Russian ethnic background, primarily East Slavic in origin, even served in the Russian Army, cementing his roots in the country. After his time in the force, he trained in combat sambo, winning the title of champion of Russia in Combat Kung Fu. Pavlovich also seems to have been invited to train for the Russian Olympic team, but he declined due to scheduling conflicts with Sambo tournaments. 

What is Sergei Pavlovich’s Religion?

Sergei Pavlovich is a devout Christian, specifically from the Russian Orthodox faith. In January 2024, Pavlovich went viral for performing a self-baptism ritual in freezing outdoor conditions to celebrate Epiphany, one of the most significant days in Orthodox Christianity, which commemorates the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist.

Dressed only in shorts while others wore insulated clothing, the Russian powerhouse immersed himself in the icy water, showcasing both his faith and mental toughness. Pavlovich is also often seen wearing a cross necklace during weigh-ins, further symbolizing his Christian devotion. While he is best known for his knockout power inside the octagon, outside of it, his faith remains a guiding force.

With his stumbling UFC run at stake, Sergei Pavlovich will look to make quick work of Waldo Cortes-Acosta to continue his dream of a title win. But do you think the Russian heavyweight has what it takes?