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Shavkat Rakhmonov thinks that a potential clash with Islam Makahachev could be quite competitive.

Rakhmonov was due for a UFC welterweight title opportunity, but injuries have derailed his momentum. The UFC brass planned to book Rakhmonov to challenge Belal Muhammad for the 170-pound gold before having to go under the knife. Muhammad eventually lost the title to Jack Della Maddalena, who then dropped it to Makhachev at UFC 322 back in Nov. 2025.

Ian Machado Garry, a top contender who Rakhmonov defeated back in 2024, got first dibs as Makhachev’s challenger and fell short via unanimous decision at UFC 330 in Philadelphia. Rakhmonov has had to watch the welterweight division move on while he recovers, but he thinks he can give Makhachev some problems.

In a sitdown interview with Alfredo Auditore for ALF Global, Rakhmonov said he believes a clash with Makhachev would be a challenge for both him and his opponent.

“I should be able to defend myself quite effectively,” Rakhmonov said. “You, on the other hand, however, wrestle well, Islam. I’ll do pretty well. I think my standup is better than Islam’s. The fight will show. That’s my opinion. Of course, I don’t want to speak too loudly. If we fight, then we fight. I truly believe that I am the toughest opponent for Islam right now, and he’s also the toughest opponent for me, personally.”

The question remains, can Rakhmonov stay healthy once he’s able to return? Some believe that the undefeated 170-pounder may have missed his window to potentially become an all-time great. Others believe that with some better luck on the injury front, he can still become an elite titleholder.

Rakhmonov’s team is pushing for a return to action in early 2027. Once he’s ready to go, the assumption is that he will face a top contender with possible title implications. How he looks upon his return will be a story to watch, but he has to complete his recovery before anything else.

Do you think we’ll ever get to see Shavkat Rakhmonov face Islam Makhachev, or will this go down as a “what if” fight? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM