TLDR
- A dangerous knife incident occurred during filming of the Russian version of The Ultimate Fighter reality show
- Daniel Cormier wanted to leave the production after witnessing a competitor grab a knife during an altercation
- Jon Jones intervened and persuaded Cormier to stay on the show despite the alarming situation
- The two former UFC rivals showed a different side of their relationship during the incident
- Jones emphasized the importance of Cormier remaining on the show to complete filming
Sources: Essentially Sports | Total Pro Sports | HITC | Bloody Elbow
Jon Jones convinced longtime rival Daniel Cormier to stay on a Russian reality show after a dangerous knife incident nearly caused Cormier to walk off the production. The alarming situation unfolded during filming of the Russian version of The Ultimate Fighter series.
A competitor grabbed a knife from the kitchen during an intense altercation between fighters. The dangerous escalation shocked Cormier, who serves as a coach on the show alongside Jones.
Cormier immediately considered leaving the production after witnessing the knife threat. The former UFC champion felt the situation had become too dangerous to continue filming.
Jones Steps In to Console Former Rival
Jones intervened after learning about Cormier’s plans to exit the show. The two UFC legends have a long history of rivalry dating back to their championship fights in the octagon.
During their conversation, Jones called Cormier “bro” while trying to calm him down. Jones explained why staying on the show remained important despite the frightening incident.
Daniel Cormier nearly left the Russian TUF reality series after someone tried grabbing a knife, but Jon Jones convinced him to stay 😳
“Nothing on this show is worth losing your life. When I see things like knives, I personally don’t wanna be here.”
(via ALF Global) pic.twitter.com/lkLP8Wbn5h
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 17, 2026
The unexpected moment showed a different side of the relationship between the two fighters. Their rivalry has been well-documented over the years through multiple fights and heated exchanges.
Cormier eventually agreed to stay after Jones finished talking with him. The decision allowed filming to continue with both coaches remaining on set.
Russian TUF Series Brings Together Former Champions
The show features Jones and Cormier coaching opposing teams of fighters. This marks a rare collaboration between the two former light heavyweight champions.
The Russian version of The Ultimate Fighter follows the same format as the American series. Coaches lead teams of aspiring fighters competing for a professional contract.
Both Jones and Cormier have participated in The Ultimate Fighter franchise before in different capacities. Their coaching roles on the Russian version bring added attention due to their past rivalry.
The knife incident represents a serious breach of conduct on a reality show. Production typically maintains strict rules about weapons and fighter behavior during filming.
No reports indicate anyone suffered injuries during the altercation. The situation was brought under control after the initial confrontation.
Jones’ role as peacemaker contrasts with his usual competitive relationship with Cormier. The two have exchanged harsh words and engaged in physical confrontations at press events over the years.
Cormier has since retired from active competition in the UFC. He now works as a commentator and analyst for the promotion while taking on special projects like the Russian reality show.
Jones remains an active fighter and current UFC heavyweight champion. His participation in the Russian TUF series occurred between his fighting commitments.
The show continues filming with both coaches remaining on set. Jones’ intervention prevented a major disruption to the production schedule and kept the series on track.
