Shavkat Rakhmonov has confirmed a fresh injury setback, undergoing another surgery and delaying his return to the Octagon.
The Kazakhstani fighter was seen with a knee brace and crutches, sparking concerns about his health.
## What happened to Shavkat Rakhmonov?
Shavkat Rakhmonov has been out of action since his win over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310 in December 2024.
A knee injury that needed surgery has kept him from competing ever since.
The unbeaten welterweight was aiming for a comeback early in 2026, but those plans have been pushed back again.
## Why it matters for Shavkat Rakhmonov
Rakhmonov's injury update affects his goal of winning the UFC belt, which he still hopes to achieve.
He expressed his determination to come back stronger, smarter, and hungrier than ever.
The welterweight contender shared an update via social media, stating that every setback is part of a bigger plan.
## What comes next for Shavkat Rakhmonov?
With Rakhmonov now out of the picture, attention has turned to what is next for the welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.
Makhachev moved up from lightweight, and his next fight is uncertain.
Rakhmonov's return to the Octagon will be postponed, and he will need time to fully recover from his injury.
The Kazakhstani fighter is still focused on his goal of bringing the UFC belt to Kazakhstan.
And his fans are standing by him, waiting for his return to the Octagon.
But for now, Rakhmonov's priority is his recovery, and he will come back when he is fully healed.
So the wait for Shavkat Rakhmonov's return continues, with his fans hoping for a strong comeback.
Rakhmonov's injury update is a setback, but he is determined to overcome it and achieve his goal.
The UFC belt is still his target, and he will work hard to get it.