Rakhmonov Shows Wrestling In Recovery Footage

Shavkat Rakhmonov is drilling wrestling and grappling again after knee surgery derailed his title shot last year.

New training footage posted by his boxing coach on Instagram shows the undefeated Kazakh bouncing on his feet while striking, working takedowns, and locking up a guillotine choke. Sherdog noted the clips mark a sharp turnaround from earlier this year, when Rakhmonov was photographed using a walking stick and wearing knee braces on both legs.

Rakhmonov Targets Early 2027 Return After Second Knee Injury

Rakhmonov has not fought since stopping Ian Garry in December 2024. He was slated to challenge Belal Muhammad for the welterweight strap in 2025 but pulled out with a knee injury. A second training-room setback required surgery and kept him out of the UFC rankings. His camp has said early 2027 is the target for his octagon comeback.

The welterweight title has changed hands twice in Rakhmonov's absence. Garry, whom Rakhmonov defeated in his most recent outing, now challenges Islam Makhachev for the belt at UFC 330 on Aug. 15 in Philadelphia.

Rakhmonov carries a 19-0 record and has finished every opponent he has faced in the UFC. No return date has been announced.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Shavkat Rakhmonov injury update: New footage boosts UFC return hopes