UFC welterweight contender Shavkat Rakhmonov has suffered a devastating setback in his pursuit of championship gold. The undefeated Kazakh fighter reinjured his left knee and recently underwent surgery.
His manager Danny Rubenstein confirmed to Ariel Helwani on January 31. Rakhmonov is expected to remain out of action for an additional nine to ten months, effectively sidelining him for the majority of 2026.
Shavkat Rakhmonov Suffers Setback as Knee Reinjury Sidelines Unbeaten Contender for Most of 2026
The injury became apparent when Rakhmonov appeared at the Naiza FC 80 event in Kazakhstan on January 31, using crutches and wearing a substantial leg brace.