Rakhmonov was set to challenge Mohammed for welterweight gold at UFC 315 in May. He suffered an injury and was replaced by Jack Della Maddalena, who ultimately defeated Mohammed.
UFC 322 last Saturday was a big night for the welterweight division in terms of progression. Islam Makhachev defeated Maddalena to become the new defending champion. Michael Morales stopped top prospect Sean Brady in the first round. Carlos Prates scored a highlight knockout against former UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards.
Belal Mohammed spoke Newsweek Sportsand he said that with the welterweight division moving forward, Rakhmonov will have to prove his worth before getting back into the title picture.
“Yeah, I think he’ll definitely have to fight one or two more times, especially with these young guys staying active,” Muhammad said. “It just sucks. His injuries plagued him. It’s hard to stay healthy in sports, but you have to feel for him.”
Rakhmonov has been out of contention since late 2024, when he defeated Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision. Muhammad will share the Octagon with Garry in the co-headliner of UFC Qatar on Saturday. That’s another crucial 170-pound fight in Rakhmonov’s absence.
As it stands, Rakhmonov has a perfect pro MMA record of 19-0. Many believe that of all the welterweight contenders, he could give Makhachev the toughest test. The problem is that there is no timetable for the return of “Nomad”. He will miss all of 2025 and if he can’t fight again soon in 2026, there will be questions about his future.
For now, fans will be hooked on the current crop of active 170-pound talent, who are starting to emerge as potential threats to Makhachev’s title and winning streak.
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