Rakhmonov Teases 2027 Return After Injury Rumors
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Shavkat Rakhmonov has teased a 2027 comeback after unconfirmed reports suggested his knee troubles worsened over the weekend.
The undefeated welterweight posted "Soon 2027" alongside a clenched-fist emoji on his Instagram Story, as MMA Fighting first reported. Rakhmonov did not identify a return date or opponent, but the message appeared to counter social media chatter that his ongoing knee issues had suffered another setback.
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What Rakhmonov's Absence Means For Welterweight Title Picture
Rakhmonov has not competed since he beat Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 310 in December 2024. That win lined him up for a crack at then-champion Belal Muhammad, but recurring knee problems kept the Kazakh contender out of action. Muhammad later dropped the belt to Jack Della Maddalena, who subsequently lost it to Islam Makhachev.
In October, Rakhmonov teased a potential clash with another unbeaten fighter, per Sherdog, which sparked speculation about Michael Morales. Morales has since been booked against Carlos Prates for the interim welterweight title at UFC 336 on Jan. 30 in Toronto, with the winner expected to challenge Makhachev next.
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Rakhmonov carries a 19-0 record but has not fought in nearly two years. No opponent has been announced for his return.
Photo by Omar Abozeid on Unsplash
Original reporting:
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