UFC Welterweight Shavkat Rakhmonov is ready to return to the Octagon after recovering from a knee injury, but has revealed that his desired opponent, Kamaru Usman, previously “turned him down.”
Rakhmonov, who holds a 7-0 record in the UFC, last fought in December 2024 when he secured a win over Ian Machado Garry to cement his spot as the No. 1 contender. He was initially booked for a title shot against Belal Muhammad at UFC 315, but the injury forced him to withdraw. Rakhmonov understands he will likely need one more high-profile win to secure his title shot against the current champion (Islam Makhachev). With that goal in mind, the ‘Nomad’ wants a clash with Usman. However, Rakhmonov expressed doubt the fight will materialize, claiming Usman has turned down the fight previously.
Rakhmonov Reacts
“Of course, I would prefer to fight for the title next, but I think this timeline isn’t going to work for Islam, February or March. He will probably defend his belt in April, May, that time. Of course, if I can fight Islam next, I’m ready I can do it. I was also supposed to fight for the title, but I had a respectful reason not to take the opportunity and I was promised a title shot in the future.
“Again, if I have to fight before getting a title shot, I have no problem with that. I can prove again I’m the No. 1 contender. … The most intriguing fight for me is Kamaru Usman. But I don’t believe he’s going to accept a fight against me. He’s turned down fights with me in the past,” Rakhmonov said
The Approach
Rakhmonov’s strategy would be to maintain his high-pressure. Rakhmonov’s long-range karate stance and varied kick attacks would be the primary tool to disrupt Usman. He would utilize his reach advantage to land powerful straight punches and oblique kicks, forcing Usman to initiate the clinch or a takedown from a less stable position. While he is an elite grappler, Rakhmonov would likely employ his wrestling defensively first, frustrating Usman’s attempts to control the fight. Rakhmonov’s true grappling threat lies in his submissions, meaning Usman cannot simply hold a dominant position without fear of a submission attempt.
Usman’s main goal would be to make this a grueling fight by securing takedowns and landing short, controlling strikes that score points and stifle the “Nomad’s” offense. By constantly wrestling, Usman forces Rakhmonov to spend energy defending, preventing the high-output.
In the stand-up, Usman would rely on a high-volume, low-risk approach using the jab to find his distance and initiate the clinch. He would be highly cautious of Rakhmonov’s power and submissions, avoiding the in-the-pocket exchanges.