Jon Jones has been living part time in Groznoy after buying a home in the area, and during a relaxed outing with friends he spent the evening with middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev. The two took pictures with people nearby and talked for a while before they decided to move around lightly on the street.
A short video showed both men in winter clothing as they playfully grappled. Even in that informal setting, Chimaev managed to take Jones down, which surprised many who saw the clip. The moment spread quickly online and became a talking point because of the unexpected outcome.
Khamzat's strength must be off the charts pic.twitter.com/dVLAPeZjL5
— MMA On Point (@mmaonpoint) November 25, 2025
Casual Exchange Turns Into Rematch Discussion
Rizvan Edilsultanov, an amateur photographer who was present, explained that Chimaev clearly won the brief exchange. His footage also captured Jones running off and repeating “no,” asking people not to film him. Viewers recognized the light-hearted tone, though it still led many to revisit the idea of the two sharing a real contest.
Edilsultanov added more context later. He said that someone in the group jokingly offered money for a real fight, and Jones accepted right away. His post stated:
“Khamzat Chimaev @khamzat_chimaev and John Jones @jonnybones tested each other’s struggles. Slightly surpassed Chimaev 👍
Jones couldn’t settle with. with “defeat” he began to shout at the whole Terrible – NO – NO – 🤣 but then Alfredo @alfredo_auditore entered the case, offering for a fight (who can say how much? ) to which Jones immediately replied with agreement 🤣”
Jones has not competed since his heavyweight run, while Chimaev has continued adjusting to life as champion at middleweight. Their friendly exchange, however, created new interest in a possible matchup that had previously seemed unlikely.
Nothing official has been discussed so far, but the brief street session has encouraged people to revisit the idea. A casual moment between the two may eventually lead to something more structured if both sides decide to move forward.
