Shavkat Rakhmonov returns to pad work after knee surgery, nears UFC comeback

Shavkat Rakhmonov, the undefeated UFC welterweight contender, has resumed light pad work as he progresses through recovery from knee surgery, signalling that a comeback may be within reach. The Kazakh fighter (19–0) underwent surgery in January after re-injuring his left knee, and was given a 9–10 month recovery timeline. Recent social media posts show him back in training with pad work and continuing rehabilitation, though he remains on a measured return protocol.

Rakhmonov has been sidelined for roughly eighteen months due to knee injuries. He fought Ian Garry in December 2024 on a card that was originally set for a title showdown between Rakhmonov and then-champion Belal Muhammad, who withdrew due to a bone infection. Rakhmonov won that fight against Garry despite reportedly entering with an aggravated knee issue, though the injury worsened and ultimately required surgical intervention.

The welterweight title picture has shifted considerably in the interim. Muhammad lost his belt to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 last year, and Islam Makhachev—formerly a dominant lightweight champion—moved up in weight and defeated Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November to claim the welterweight strap. Makhachev is set to defend his title against Garry at UFC 330 on August 15 in Philadelphia. Once fully cleared, Rakhmonov will likely need to work his way back into title contention, though his unbeaten record and prior ranking should position him favourably for a run at the championship.