Shavkat Rakhmonov was set to challenge Belal Muhammad for the UFC welterweight title earlier this year in Montreal but suffered a severe knee injury that forced him to withdraw. This injury unexpectedly opened the door for Jack Della Maddalena to upset Muhammad in May, altering the division’s landscape. Now, Sean Brady, ranked just above Rakhmonov, is preparing for the anticipated comeback of the undefeated fighter, expecting a significant clash at Madison Square Garden.
Rakhmonov’s Road to Recovery and Brady’s Patience
Rakhmonov, holding an unblemished 19-0 record, is rumored to be planning his return toward the end of the year, possibly appearing at a major pay-per-view event in November or December. Sean Brady expressed his desire to face Rakhmonov on this potential card, stating he would prefer to wait and have the matchup alongside other welterweight contenders like Della Maddalena and lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
“I seen through a little birdie that that Shavkat was saying something about him coming back in November or December,”
Brady revealed on his BradyBagz show.
“So I want to fight soon, but I would wait and fight him at MSG on the same card as Jack [Della Maddalena] and Islam [Makhachev]. And then that’s a true number one contender fight.”
However, Rakhmonov has shown reluctance toward taking any tune-up or intermediate fights during his comeback, which may complicate Brady’s plans.
Uncertainties Surrounding Future Welterweight Title Fights
The timeline for the next welterweight title defense remains unclear, with multiple contenders vying for a shot at the crown. Current speculation suggests that Islam Makhachev could soon move up for a title opportunity at 170 pounds, but no official announcements have been made. As a result, the welterweight division faces an uncertain path forward, with several variables still in play before a definitive championship fight is set.
The anticipation for Rakhmonov’s return weighs heavily on fans and fighters alike, as his presence promises to shake up the rankings and escalate competition. Sean Brady’s readiness to engage signals a pivotal moment for the division once Rakhmonov steps back into the octagon.