Shavkat Rakhmonov is back on crutches.
The undefeated UFC welterweight contender, currently ranked No. 2 at 170 pounds, was expected to make his Octagon return in early 2026. Instead, “Nomad” will spend the rest of the year rehabbing his knee following a second knee injury and subsequent surgery.
Can’t blame this one on Ian Garry.
“A fighter’s path has never been easy,” Rakhmonov posted to social media. “Life doesn’t give us challenges we can’t overcome. Every dream comes at a price and sometimes that price is your health. Today, I have to be honest. Due to ongoing injuries, I’ve had another surgery and will need time to fully recover. As a result, my return to the Octagon will be postponed.”
Rakhmonov first blew out his knee ahead of UFC 310 back in 2024.
“It’s not easy to accept but I truly believe every setback is part of a bigger plan,” Rakhmonov continued. “I will come back stronger, smarter and hungrier than ever. My goal is still alive. The UFC belt still has to come to Kazakhstan. Thank you to everyone who stands by me no matter what. This is not the end of the journey. It’s an important chapter of it.”
Equally important to the current welterweight standings.
The absence of Rakhmonov allowed former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev to cut the line and capture the crown against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 last fall. Now that “Nomad” is benched for the rest of the year, Kamaru Usman, Ian Garry, and Michael Morales can all make a solid argument for the next 170-pound title shot.
Expect that decision to come within the next few weeks, if not sooner.
