I'm not sure what is bothering you? Is it that the CAA does not mandate a check every week and two seat versions of everything are available to make you safe.
Its up to you how often you take a check in the private world - you are a sensible chap. I've no doubt you could have found a Pitts or an Extra and an instructor to get you up to speed if you felt the need before leaping into your Sukhoi - why didn't you.
You can leave flying for up to 3 years and still be legal if you want to.