Breaking: Shavkat Rakhmonov Spotted With Knee Brace and Crutches, UFC Return in Question Again
Shavkat Rakhmonov’s UFC return might be further delayed. The Kazakh fighter, who last competed in 2024, was sidelined throughout 2025 due to a meniscus injury and a partial ACL tear.
Following recovery and rehabilitation, ‘Nomad’ was expected to return to the octagon in 2026. However, recent footage that has surfaced on the internet has many in the MMA world believing he won’t be returning anytime soon.
Latest update on Shavkat Rakhmonov
Shavkat Rakhmonov was seen walking with crutches and wearing a knee brace earlier today, while attending the NAIZA 80 domestic league event. Multiple news outlets shared the clip on their social media.
Check the clip out below:
The undefeated 170-pounder last fought Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310 in 2024 and won by unanimous decision, handing the Irishman his first MMA loss.
Despite the inactivity, in 2026, he is still the No. 2-ranked welterweight contender. ‘Nomad’ was expected to fight a top contender before possibly fighting for the title this year.
Shavkat Rakhmonov got a shot at the welterweight title in 2024, when Belal Muhammad was the champion. However, the bout never came to fruition, as ‘Remember the Name’ had a bone infection that forced him to stay on the sidelines at that time.
Earlier this month, Rakhmonov’s coach, Eduard Bazrov, revealed that his pupil would not enter the octagon before April, as they need two to three months to prepare. According to the latest update from coach Bazrov, no opponent has been assigned yet. He told Betonmobile:
“We need two and a half to three months to get ready for the fight. Shavkat is training, preparing and working out in the gym. It depends on the date and month that are offered… Whoever is assigned, we have to fight them and prepare for their style. So far, there have been no offers regarding Shavkat’s opponent or bout.”
