Kazakh star back in training after injury layoff
Unbeaten welterweight contender Shavkat Rakhmonov is closing in on his UFC comeback after recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him earlier this year. His manager, Sayat Abdrakhmanov, confirmed that the Kazakh fighter—nicknamed “Nomad”—has resumed full training and is expected to return to the Octagon in early 2026. Rakhmonov, who was previously in line for a title opportunity, was forced to withdraw from competition in May due to lingering knee issues.
Welterweight division moves on during absence
During Rakhmonov’s recovery, the welterweight division has undergone significant changes, with new contenders emerging and title fights reshaping the rankings. Abdrakhmanov noted that while Rakhmonov remains focused on the championship, he may take one fight before re-entering title contention to reestablish his dominance in the 170-pound division.
Timeline points to late January or early February return
According to Abdrakhmanov, the team is targeting a return between late January and early February 2026, depending on how the division’s schedule unfolds. The manager emphasized that Rakhmonov’s recovery and training are progressing well, and that the fighter intends to make a strong statement upon his comeback to set up a potential title bout later in the year.
