Shavkat Rakhmonov

Major rule change discussion incoming for MMA? CSAC Executive Director Andy Foster is pushing to BAN oblique kicks to the knee under the Unified Rules of MMA going forward. Foster brought up the proposed ban during a commission debrief following UFC 331, citing the high risk of catastrophic, career-threatening injuries that strikes targeting the knee joint can cause. The debate around knee stomps has surged again among fighters and officials, especially after high-profile knee trauma like Shavkat Rakhmonov suffered against Ian Garry.

Garry

Islam Makhachev has identified Ian Garry as one of the most dangerous opponents he has faced, predicting Garry will become champion after he vacates the title. Makhachev rates Shavkat Rakhmonov, Carlston Harris Pratas, and Jose Morales on roughly the same level, citing Pratas's striking power, Morales's size and versatility in both standup and wrestling, and Rakhmonov's all-around skills as a fighter.

Makhachev

Shavkat Rakhmonov's coach has confirmed that the welterweight contender is not retiring and is preparing to return to the octagon. The coach stated that Rakhmonov would have publicly addressed his fans in advance if he intended to end his career, and no such conversation has taken place. He emphasized that the team's focus remains on training and preparation for an upcoming return.

Islam Makhachev has responded to comments made by Shavkat Rakhmonov, who claimed he deserved a title shot more than others. Makhachev made clear he has never ruled out the fight, telling Rakhmonov to recover and come back for it.

Makhachev

Shavkat Rakhmonov has opened up about competing at UFC 310 against Ian Machado Garry while carrying a meniscus tear, an ACL injury, and a swollen leg — injuries so severe he says he should not have fought at all. Despite the setbacks, he defeated Machado Garry by decision in a No. 1 contender bout and has not competed since. Rakhmonov also took aim at fellow contenders, stating that fighters from Dagestan such as Khabib Nurmagomedov or current welterweight champion Islam Makhachev would have pulled out under the same circumstances. He remains uncertain about whether or when he will return to action.

Nurmagomedov, Makhachev, Garry+1

Islam Makhachev has stated he wants to compete in three more fights before ending his career, describing the upcoming bouts as interesting and difficult. The planned opponents include Moraes, Prates, and potentially Shavkat Rakhmonov.

Makhachev