Rakhmonov Eyes 2027 Return Against Fellow Unbeaten Michael Morales

Shavkat Rakhmonov is aiming for a 2027 comeback and appears to want Michael Morales, the No. 3-ranked welterweight, as his opponent. No fight has been announced.

Rakhmonov hasn't fought since outpointing Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310 in December 2024, and has since had a serious knee injury and surgery. The 31-year-old posted training footage hinting at a return next year and captioned another post "19-0 VS 19-0."

Morales, 27, has already pitched the matchup himself: "If you guys have different plans, Islam [Makhachev], if you prefer [Carlos] Prates because you prefer an easier fighter, I have [my fight] for 2027. The final boss of this division, Shavkat Rakhmonov. You know where to find me," Morales