Shavkat Rakhmonov is back to wrestling in encouraging UFC return sign

Shavkat Rakhmonov, the undefeated welterweight, has been making strides in his recovery and rehabilitation from multiple leg injuries. Recently, he shared footage on his Instagram stories showcasing some light wrestling work, signaling a potential return to competition. Rakhmonov, who had not competed since December 2024 due to injury setbacks, appeared in good spirits in the video and was notably seen without the protective boot he had been wearing in a recent interview.

In an interview with AFL Global on September 6, Rakhmonov commented on his desire to face current welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, stating that he matches up well with the champion. Following Makhachev's dismissal of Rakhmonov from the list of 170-pound contenders, Makhachev responded by suggesting that Rakhmonov wait and recover for a potential matchup, implying that Rakhmonov would become a contender once he returns from his recovery.