Islam Makhachev secured the welterweight title after a decisive victory over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, sending a strong message throughout the division. Following this win, fans have expressed interest in potential matchups, suggesting contenders like Ian Garry, Carlos Prates, and Michael Morales. However, the excitement for a future showdown against Shavkat Rakhmonov has become overshadowed by concerns regarding the undefeated fighter’s health.
Recently, Rakhmonov was seen using crutches and wearing a knee brace during the NAIZA 80 fight night event, raising questions about his ongoing knee problems. The Kazakh fighter has been sidelined since December 2024 due to a significant knee injury, which previously forced him to withdraw from a title fight against Belal Muhammad at UFC 315, with Della Maddalena stepping in as his replacement. Unfortunately, Rakhmonov’s situation appears increasingly precarious as 2026 begins, further frustrating fans who were optimistic about his return.
While there is uncertainty surrounding the severity of Rakhmonov’s condition, some fans speculate he may have undergone surgery, likely extending his recovery time. Comments from supporters highlight both sympathy for Rakhmonov’s plight and concern that he may become another “what if” fighter in the UFC, akin to Zabit Magomedsharipov, whose career was also hindered by injuries.
In the meantime, the welterweight division continues to evolve, with many focusing on potential title defenses for Makhachev. Fans have already begun speculating about matchups like Morales versus Makhachev, indicating that the landscape is shifting rapidly.
Moreover, Della Maddalena, eager to redeem himself after the loss to Makhachev, has expressed interest in facing Rakhmonov upon his return. The former challenger believes that defeating Rakhmonov could earn him another shot at the title. If Rakhmonov is able to recover and return to active competition by late 2026, we could see a significant clash between these two highly skilled fighters.
As the situation develops, there remains hope that Rakhmonov will recover swiftly and resume his career at the level fans expect. With the potential for intriguing matchups on the horizon, the welterweight division promises to stay dynamic, regardless of Rakhmonov’s current challenges.