As we know, Shavkat Rakhmonov is one of the most high-profile welterweights in the division. However, it has now been over a year since he fought Ian Machado Garry in his last fight. He was scheduled to compete for the title, but an injury ruled him out. So far it is not clear when exactly he will return.
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Given what he has shown over the course of his time in promotion so far, it feels inevitable that Rakhmonov will fight for a world championship. Unfortunately, injuries can often get in the way of that, even at the elite level.
In one recent tweetRakhmonov said this about his progress after images emerged of his leg looking quite battered.
pic.twitter.com/iyOVzvUfSm
— Shavkat “Nomad” Rakhmonov (@Rakhmonov1994) February 1, 2026
Rakhmonov looks to the future
“The path of a fighter has never been easy. Life doesn’t give us challenges that we can’t overcome. Every dream has a price and sometimes that price is your health.
“Today I have to be honest: due to persistent injuries I have undergone another operation and will need time to fully recover. As a result, my return to the Octagon is postponed.
“It’s not easy to accept, but I truly believe that every setback is part of a bigger plan. I will come back stronger, smarter and hungrier than ever.”
“My goal is still alive. The UFC belt has yet to come to Kazakhstan.
“Thank you to everyone who continues to support me no matter what. This is not the end of the journey, it is an important chapter of it.”
Will Shavkat ever become world champion? Let us know your thoughts in the comments, BJPENN Nation!
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