One of the sports best unbeaten contenders Shavkat Rakhmonov is next in line for a shot at the welterweight crown. However, the new champion appears reluctant to offer the Kazakhstan native a chance at UFC gold.
The pair have been going back and forth on social media and the fight seems to gradually be building. Current champion Belal Muhammed claimed his belt in dominant fashion at UFC 304 and since has been calling the out his division. In particular, he has targeted former champion Kamaru Usman whom is in a horrible run of form with a three consecutive defeats.
Shavkat Rakhmonov Has No Fear of Conor McGregor Queue Jumping AT 170lbs
The sports greatest superstar Conor McGregor could be returning in the coming months. Therefore every champion around his weight is bringing up his name, he is the golden ticket, the “red panty night” and everyone wants a piece of that pie. Specifically, Michael Chandler has been waiting almost two years for his promised bout to materialise. The bout originally pencilled in for UFC 303, International Fight Week, was set at 170lbs. Sparking these rumours of a potential shot at a third UFC belt in a third division if McGregor was victorious.
Shavkat Rakhmonov had his say on the Irishman possibly jumping the queue at welterweight,
“He’s [Conor McGregor] been getting ready to fight a long time but wasn’t able to do that yet so in my head, I don’t even think about him winning this one fight in three years is going to do something. I understand he’s a big star but in my head, I don’t see it being possible. I believe UFC is the best and the most fair organization so I believe they’re gonna do everything right.” Quotes via BJPenn.com.
The Shavkat Rakhmonov Resume
At 18-0 with a 100% finish rate it is an obscene record and run of victories. Inside the premier organisation, the UFC, he has six wins with five submissions and a TKO. His last three opponents show a progression up the welterweight rankings and each test has been passed with flying colours. The fight with Geoff Neal proved he has the grit and desire to win, when the fight isn’t going all his way he was still able to snatch an impressive and vicious choke late in round 3. Across the roster he is one of the most deserving contenders of a title shot. If he secures the shot and gets the win the belt could remain in Kazakhstan for quite an era.
If Belal Muhammed vs Shavkat Rakhmonov happens who do you see coming out on top?
