Key Highlights
- Shavkat Rakhmonov removed from UFC welterweight rankings due to recent injury woes.
- Rakhmonov last fought in December 2024 against Ian Machado Garry and had a planned title shot against Belal Muhammad.
- The Kazakh fighter underwent surgery for his knee, which has delayed his return until late 2026 at the earliest.
The Fall of Rakhmonov: A Tale of Woe in the UFC Welterweight Division
Shavkat Rakhmonov, a once-promising contender in the UFC welterweight division, has found himself on the losing side of fate. The Kazakh fighter, 31, was last seen stepping into the Octagon against Ian Machado Garry in December 2024, emerging victorious via decision.
However, the path to greatness for Rakhmonov took a sharp turn when he fell victim to an injury that forced him out of his scheduled title shot against Belal Muhammad. The writing on the wall was clear: Rakhmonov’s knee issues were more than just a minor setback.
He hinted at fighting through the pain but ultimately, it proved too much.
The UFC made a decision to remove Rakhmonov from its rankings, citing his ongoing injury concerns. The timeline leading up to this moment is stark and undeniable: Rakhmonov’s last fight in December 2024, followed by a title opportunity that fell through due to his ailment.
Backlash of the Injuries
The re-injury narrative has been a recurring theme for Rakhmonov. He’s had surgery just once in the past year but was forced into another operation in late 2025, pushing his return to the Octagon further into the future. As he navigates this arduous journey, the UFC’s decision to remove him from rankings is a clear sign of their lack of confidence.
A recent social media post by Rakhmonov himself reflects the struggle: “A fighter’s path has never been easy.” His words echo the reality that every dream comes at a price.
The cost for Rakhmonov? A significant delay in his title aspirations and an uncertain future in the UFC.
Speculation and Future Prospects
The future of Rakhmonov’s career remains murky, with speculations abounding about potential matchups. A mouthwatering prospect would be a rematch against Islam Makhachev, but it seems increasingly distant given his current status. Meanwhile, there are whispers that Makhachev himself might face challenges from Kamaru Usman.
The road back for Rakhmonov is long and arduous.
Yet, as he stands at the crossroads of his career, one thing is clear: his determination to return stronger than ever. The UFC belt still has a way to go before it reaches Kazakhstan, but it’s unlikely to happen anytime soon.
In the meantime, Rakhmonov’s story serves as a cautionary tale in the often unpredictable world of mixed martial arts. For now, he’ll focus on recovery and hope that his next step will be more successful than the last.