Shavkat Rakhmonov Questions Islam Makhachev’s Status as Welterweight Contender

Shavkat Rakhmonov is currently nursing a knee injury. Having played his last UFC match back in 2024, Rakhmonov would want to comeback to title contention very soon. However, speaking about the current scenario of the welterweight division, the 31-year-old felt that Islam Makhachev was not the deserving candidate for the welterweight title shot. 

Shavkat Rakhmonov Defends Status as UFC Welterweight Contender 

Before Makhachev made his move to the welterweight division, Rakhmonov was heavily touted as the next in line to fight Jack Della Maddalena. But things changed as the Dagestani champion decided to move up in weight. Reflecting on the same, Rakhmonov pointed out that he has won seven fights in the UFC. Thus, he was the deserving candidate to face Maddalena for the title. 

Rakhmonov told ALF Global, “Islam was doing some strange things. Islam became champion. He was doing some strange things that I didn't like. Of course, I like Islam as a person, but the most serious contender, the one who deserved it, was me. Maybe I haven't fought in a year, but I won seven fights in the UFC."

 

At the moment, Makhachev is dominating the welterweight division. Having defeated Della Maddalena, the Dagestani icon has defended his belt against Ian Garry recently. However, following his comeback from rehab, Rakhmonov is fancying his chances of getting inside the octagon with Makhachev. 

Shavkat Rakhmonov Cites Islam Makhachev as ‘Toughest’ Challenge

Makhachev has already proved his worth in the welterweight division. Fighting against Garry, the UFC two-division champion did have some difficulty. But in the end, the Dagestani was able to work his way and put on an impressive show. Looking at Makhachev’s prowess, Rakhmonov seems to be full of respect. 

But he is also confident about his victory if the duo cross paths in the future. ‘Nomad’ said, “ also the toughest opponent for me personally. I should be able to defend myself quite effectively. I’ll do pretty well. I think my stand-up is better than Islam’s.”

The 31-year-old is expected to come back in early 2027.