Shavkat Rakhmonov targeting UFC return in late 2026 after knee surgery

Shavkat Rakhmonov is planning to return to the UFC octagon toward the end of 2026 following a lengthy rehabilitation from knee injury and multiple surgeries. The undefeated welterweight contender continues to undergo extensive recovery treatment. If he returns in December as planned, Rakhmonov will have been sidelined for exactly two years since his last UFC appearance. The extended layoff raises questions about his ranking position and potential matchup upon return, though no opponent has been named.