Shavkat Rakhmonov, the UFC’s undefeated welterweight contender, has resumed contact training after being sidelined since December 2024 by a persistent knee injury. The 31-year-old Kazakh, removed from the 170lb rankings earlier this year, was recently spotted hitting pads in an Instagram video, marking a significant step in his rehabilitation.
Progress in long road back to the cage
Images shared by darteam.Kazakhstan on Instagram showed Rakhmonov working with a coach, moving cautiously as he tested his surgically repaired knee. Following multiple operations and a reported setback earlier this year, the footage represents the first public glimpse of the unbeaten welterweight contender engaging in live training since his cut-throat victory over Ian Machado Garry in December 2024.
Rakhmonov had addressed fan concern in February after being photographed at a UFC event on crutches and wearing a knee brace, confirming he had suffered another injury that required surgery. The recent pad work suggests his recovery is on track, although the nature of his movements indicates a careful approach to avoid further complications.
Fan reaction and lingering concerns
Despite optimism over the training footage, fans expressed doubts about the impact of a two-year absence on Rakhmonov’s prime. “He lost his prime because of his injury,” one supporter commented, while another warned: “Please don’t come back boring a–.” A third fan went as far as to label him “one of the biggest what ifs in welterweight history.”
Amid praise for his past performances, supporters also acknowledged the stacked nature of the welterweight division. “I do hope he makes a return. Dude was a killer before the injury. Super interesting addition to that stacked division,” one fan noted, reflecting both eagerness and uncertainty about his future impact.
Implications for the welterweight title picture
At the time of his injury, Rakhmonov was widely regarded as the No.1 contender for the UFC welterweight championship. However, his extended absence led to his removal from the official rankings earlier this year, despite a spotless 15-0 record. When he does return, he is expected to need at least one fight before he can challenge for the belt.
The current welterweight landscape features talents such as Ian Machado Garry, Carlos Prates and Michael Morales, all earning consideration for title opportunities. Rakhmonov’s eventual return will reintroduce another headline-calibre competitor into one of UFC’s deepest divisions, though the timing of his comeback remains uncertain.
While the gym footage offers a hopeful sign that Rakhmonov’s long rehabilitation is bearing fruit, the UFC community will be watching closely for any official announcement on his next steps. Whether 2026 or beyond holds his ring walk remains to be seen, but for now the focus is firmly on continued recovery and regaining full training capacity.
FAQ
When was Shavkat Rakhmonov’s last fight?
Rakhmonov last competed in December 2024, securing a victory over Ian Machado Garry before suffering a knee injury during the bout.
Why was Rakhmonov removed from the welterweight rankings?
He was taken off the UFC’s 170lb rankings earlier this year after being out of action for an extended period due to multiple knee surgeries and a subsequent injury setback.
What did the recent training footage show?
The video, posted on Instagram by darteam.Kazakhstan, displayed Rakhmonov engaging in pad work with a coach, moving carefully on his repaired knee to test his recovery.
What are the implications for the welterweight title scene?
Although Rakhmonov was once viewed as the top contender, he will likely need at least one fight to re-establish himself before challenging for the UFC welterweight championship amid strong competition in the division.
