It promised to be a clash of the titans, the bare-chested black belt from Russia versus Australia's boxer-in-chief who is as likely to be seen surfing as in Canberra.
But when Vladimir Putin and Tony Abbott nearly met on the first day of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (Apec) conference in Beijing, there was a disappointing lack of aggravation - and certainly no shirtfronting.
The nearest thing to any perceived slight was Mr Abbott's rather awkward stance as he twisted away from the Moscow hardman at an official photocall.
And there was no doubt that the most controversial element of the traditional "family photo" was the outfits.
Many were quick to point out that the 21 delegates, clad in Chinese tunics, bore an uncanny resemblance to the cast of Star Trek rather than a group of world leaders about to embark on a gruelling round of diplomacy.
"Obama wearing Star Trek jacket in China? Someone please beam him up," wrote Steve Miller on Twitter.
Russian President Vladimir Putin with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Apec meeting. Photo / AFP
- Daily Mail