Thompson Warns On Rakhmonov's UFC Return

Stephen Thompson expects Shavkat Rakhmonov to return from his lengthy injury layoff sharper than ever.

Rakhmonov has not competed since beating Ian Garry in December 2024, missing over 18 months after a knee injury scrapped what was expected to be a title shot. The welterweight belt has since moved from Belal Muhammad to Jack Della Maddalena to Islam Makhachev, who defended against Garry at UFC 330. The long absence dropped Rakhmonov from the official rankings entirely.

Thompson Says Rakhmonov Trained Through Injury

Thompson, who lost to Rakhmonov by submission in 2023, told Home of Fight that the unbeaten Kazakh should not be counted out. "Huge threat," Thompson said, per Sherdog. "The guy is very skillful everywhere. Just because you don't see this guy fighting, a lot of people think he's not been training. This dude has been a through-and-through martial artist since day one. That's all he does is train."

Thompson added that Rakhmonov will carry a different edge after the forced break. "Don't underestimate this guy coming back. I feel like he's gonna come back even better, a stronger mindset, stronger fighter spirit. He's looking for blood."

Rakhmonov holds a 19-0 record with every win coming by finish. No timetable has been announced for his octagon return.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Stephen Thompson issues warning about Shavkat Rakhmonov’s return