Islam Makhachev Doesn’t Understand Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Title Shot Demand Despite His Injury

In the UFC, the welterweight division is stacked with potential title contenders who want to fight Islam Makhachev for the title. From Carlos Prates to Michael Morales, there are some dangerous fighters who want their shot at the title. Among them, Shavkat Rakhmonov is one such name. He has remained undefeated throughout his career, but an unfortunate injury has derailed his career for now.

Meanwhile, it’s been over a year and a half since he last fought, but he has been demanding a title shot. However, the champion didn’t understand why he was demanding it while being on knee braces.

Islam Makhachev Fires Back at Shavkat Rakhmonov Over His Title Shot Demand

Recently, Rakhmonov gave the interview and said he was not happy with Makhachev. He felt he should have been the first fighter to get a title shot because he had won all seven of his UFC fights. To which the champ did not agree. He said the Kazakhstani was injured and had a big brace on his knee. As per the champ, he could not choose Rakhmonov and then wait more than a year for him to get better and then fight.

“He gave an interview with a huge brace on his knee. He says he wants to fight. I want to respond to his interview. He says I should have chosen him. Chose him? Then wait for 1.5 years for him to recover? I never said that I will not fight him,” Makhachev said.

Undoubtedly, the division has to keep moving, and a champion cannot wait too long to fight and waste time in their prime. Currently, Makhachev is at the peak of his career, so he has to make the right decision, keeping his career in mind. Meanwhile, the welterweight champ is recovering from an injury.

Islam Makhachev Shared Timeline for His Return To Defend the UFC Title

After the UFC 330 fight against Ian Garry, Makhachev is taking some time to recover. He later revealed that he is dealing with a few small injuries. As per the champ, he had three MRIs and got his whole spine checked, but nothing is serious. Meanwhile, he wants to return before Ramadan, which starts in February 2027, and hopes to get a fight before then.

“After the fight, I had three MRIs and had my entire spine checked. There are a few small issues, so I’m working on them. It’s nothing serious. I’m just strengthening my spine. We’ll wait for the UFC to call. I think the ideal scenario would be to fight before Ramadan. Ramadan starts for us in February,” Makhachev said.

There are so many fighters waiting for their chance at the title. So, it will be interesting to see who Makhachev picks for his next fight.