A detailed breakdown of Shavkat Rakhmonov's performance against Ian Garry highlighted several areas where the Kazakh fighter excelled. The analysis noted Rakhmonov's improved striking at middle range compared to his bout with Geoff Neal, his dominance in the clinch during the first four rounds, and becoming the only UFC fighter to successfully take Garry down in the center of the cage, accomplishing this twice. However, concerns were raised about Rakhmonov's limited activity at long range, where he was significantly outstruck by Garry's kicks. Despite giving up substantial ground on the outside, Rakhmonov controlled the middle and close distances, which the analyst considered more critical for MMA success. The fifth round saw Rakhmonov's only major error when he conceded position attempting a hasty takedown.
A recent analytical breakdown of Shavkat Rakhmonov's welterweight victory over Ian Garry has drawn attention to the Kazakh fighter's strengths and a few notable weaknesses across five rounds of action.
Rakhmonov, 31, carries a perfect 19-0-0 record and is currently ranked third in the welterweight division. Standing six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach, the orthodox fighter out of DAR Team in Kazakhstan has built his unbeaten reputation on a well-rounded game that includes a striking accuracy of 60 percent, 1.4 takedowns per 15 minutes, and 1.2 submission attempts per 15 minutes — numbers that reflect a genuinely dangerous blend of skills at close quarters.
The analysis highlighted several areas where Rakhmonov excelled against Garry. His striking at middle range showed improvement over his previous bout with Geoff Neal, and he dominated clinch exchanges across the first four rounds. Perhaps most notably, Rakhmonov became the only UFC fighter to successfully take Garry down in the center of the cage, completing that feat twice during the contest.
The breakdown did surface one clear vulnerability: at long range, Rakhmonov was significantly outstruck by Garry's kicks and showed limited offensive activity when the fight was played at distance. The fifth round also drew criticism, with Rakhmonov conceding position after attempting a rushed takedown — identified as his only significant tactical error of the night.
Why it matters
- Rakhmonov's clinch control and takedown ability distinguish him from every other opponent Garry has faced in the UFC
- His long-range output remains a concern that future opponents at welterweight could look to exploit
- Sitting third in the division, his performance strengthens his case as a legitimate title contender, though questions at distance add a layer of complexity to how analysts assess his ceiling
