Shavkat Rakhmonov plans to return to the UFC octagon later this year, likely around December, after undergoing a lengthy rehabilitation process. The Kazakh welterweight has been recovering from a serious knee injury that required multiple surgeries. If he fights in December as planned, it will mark exactly two years since his last UFC appearance. Rakhmonov continues his rehabilitation and is hopeful to return to competition before the year ends. The welterweight contender remains one of the division's top undefeated prospects despite the extended absence.
Shavkat "Nomad" Rakhmonov has revealed plans to return to the UFC octagon in December 2026, a comeback that would end a two-year absence caused by a serious knee injury requiring multiple surgeries.
Rakhmonov, 31, remains one of the most closely watched fighters in the welterweight division despite the lengthy layoff. The Kazakh standout carries a perfect 19-0-0 professional record and currently sits third in the UFC welterweight rankings. Standing six-foot-four with a 77-inch reach, he brings a physically imposing frame to go along with his technical finishing ability. His striking accuracy sits at 60 percent, and he averages 3.25 significant strikes landed per minute. He also poses a consistent threat on the ground, averaging 1.4 takedowns and 1.2 submission attempts per 15 minutes, making him a genuine danger in every phase of the fight.
The DAR Team product has been working through rehabilitation and remains hopeful of competing before the year is out. Should the December timeline hold, his return bout would arrive almost exactly 24 months after his last octagon appearance.
Why it matters
- Rakhmonov is the third-ranked welterweight and the only undefeated fighter in the division's upper tier, meaning his return immediately reshapes the title picture.
- A two-year absence creates uncertainty around his readiness, but his rankings position is likely to draw a high-stakes opponent upon his return.
- His well-rounded skill set — high striking accuracy combined with active grappling — makes him a dangerous matchup for anyone at 170 pounds.
- The welterweight title situation could evolve significantly before December, potentially setting up an immediate championship opportunity if circumstances align.
