It has been more than 420 days since Shavkat Rakhmonov last stepped into the UFC Octagon. For a fighter once seen as inevitable title challenger, the silence has been striking. Yet behind that absence lies a complex reality shaped by injuries, personal hardship, and a quiet battle against time.
Rakhmonov’s last appearance dates back to December 2024 at UFC 310, where he defeated Ian Garry by decision. That night ended with a symbolic face-off against then-champion Belal Muhammad, seemingly signaling what was next. Instead, it marked the beginning of a long pause.
A quiet absence with major implications
Throughout 2025, the Kazakhstani contender did not compete. Despite holding the No.2 ranking at welterweight, he remained sidelined due to ongoing health issues and difficult personal circumstances, including a tragic incident involving his family. Information was scarce, fueling speculation.
His recent appearance on crutches at an MMA event reignited concern. Shortly after, Rakhmonov addressed the situation himself.
Another surgery, the same destination
Posting on X, the 31-year-old delivered a short but telling message:
“I had another surgery and I need time to recover. My goal remains the same: the belt will go to Kazakhstan.”
No return date. No urgency. Just clarity. Realistically, the latest surgery could keep him out for another six to seven months.
Shavkat Rakhmonov Against Time: Injury, Patience, and an Unchanged Goal
شافكات رحمانوف بين الألم والصبر… إصابة تُؤجّل الحلم ولا تُغيّر الوجهة
Shavkat Rakhmonov face au temps : blessure, patience et un objectif inchangé pic.twitter.com/3VFzN2VKPb
— mmamag.ma (@jamalsoussi10) February 2, 2026
Still one of the division’s most dangerous men
Undefeated at 19–0 with 18 finishes, Rakhmonov remains one of the most feared fighters in the UFC. His absence has not diminished his reputation — it has amplified it. Each passing month builds anticipation for a return that could reshape the division.
With Islam Makhachev now sitting atop the welterweight throne, potential future matchups are already being discussed. Makhachev himself has not ruled out a clash with Rakhmonov, should their paths align.
Time as the real opponent
For now, Shavkat Rakhmonov is not fighting inside the cage. He is fighting recovery, patience, and uncertainty. The injury has delayed the dream, but it has not altered the destination.
The real question is no longer if he returns — but how, and whether that return will be even more dangerous than before.
