LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 07: Shavkat Rakhmonov of Uzbekistan punches Ian Machado Garry of Ireland during a welterweight bout during the UFC 310 event at T-Mobile Arena on December 07, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC)

However, Rakhmonov suffered a partial ACL tear and meniscus injury for which he had to undergo surgery. Following recovery and rehabilitation, Rakhmonov was plotting a return in the first or second quarter of 2026. However, his return plans were ruined when he re-injured the same knee while training. The 31-year-old had to undergo knee surgery once more and was also removed from the welterweight rankings.

Shavkat Rakhmonov to return to the octagon potentially early next year, as per source

Shavkat Rakhmonov’s treating physician, Mikhail Markuart, has stated (via solaide_ufc) that “Nomad” has no medical reasons preventing him from entering the octagon.

“As for the timeline, there are no longer any medical reasons preventing Shavkat from continuing his professional career.”

The medical professional also added that Rakhmonov now needs to rely on his strength and conditioning coaches to help him get back in shape:

“The timing of his return now depends on his strength and conditioning coaches and how quickly he can get back into fighting shape.”

Markuart also added that he expects the Kazakh fighter to return early next year:

“It also depends on the UFC’s schedule. Every case is different. I think we can expect to see Shavkat back competing in the Octagon at the beginning of next year.

Check out Shavkat Rakhmonov’s treating physician’s comments below:

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
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