Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Physician Reveals Potential UFC Return Timeline
There is good news for the UFC welterweight division and undefeated fighter Shavkat Rakhmonov’s fans.
Rakhmonov’s physician has stated that there are no medical reasons that might stop the Kazakh phenom from competing in the UFC.
Rakhmonov’s last UFC bout was in 2024 against former training partner Ian Machado Garry, which the former won by unanimous decision. After this win, Rakhmonov was going to fight then-welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, who was recovering from a bone infection.
However, Rakhmonov suffered a partial ACL tear and meniscus injury for which he had to undergo surgery. Following recovery and rehabilitation, Rakhmonov was plotting a return in the first or second quarter of 2026. However, his return plans were ruined when he re-injured the same knee while training. The 31-year-old had to undergo knee surgery once more and was also removed from the welterweight rankings.
Shavkat Rakhmonov to return to the octagon potentially early next year, as per source
Shavkat Rakhmonov’s treating physician, Mikhail Markuart, has stated (via solaide_ufc) that “Nomad” has no medical reasons preventing him from entering the octagon.
“As for the timeline, there are no longer any medical reasons preventing Shavkat from continuing his professional career.”
The medical professional also added that Rakhmonov now needs to rely on his strength and conditioning coaches to help him get back in shape:
“The timing of his return now depends on his strength and conditioning coaches and how quickly he can get back into fighting shape.”
Markuart also added that he expects the Kazakh fighter to return early next year:
“It also depends on the UFC’s schedule. Every case is different. I think we can expect to see Shavkat back competing in the Octagon at the beginning of next year.
Check out Shavkat Rakhmonov’s treating physician’s comments below:
