This weekend’s UFC 296 event, the welterweight division will see an exciting bout between Shavkat Rakhmonov and Stephen Thompson.
Shavkat Rakhmonov
Rakhmonov, hailing from Uzbekistan, is a formidable competitor with an unblemished record of 17 wins and 0 losses. Known for his proficiency in Sambo, he has demonstrated his versatility with 8 wins by knockout and 9 by submission, showing his ability to finish fights both on the feet and on the ground. Notably, he has achieved nine first-round finishes, and he has finished every opponent he has faced. His most recent victory came against Geoff Neal at UFC 285 in March 2023, where he won via rear-naked choke in the third round. Before that, Rakhmonov secured wins over Neil Magny and Carlston Harris, both of which earned him Performance of the Night awards. His fight against Harris also earned him a Fight of the Night award. Rakhmonov’s fighting style is marked by a balanced combination of striking and grappling, making him a well-rounded and dangerous opponent in the welterweight division.
Stephen Thompson
Stephen Thompson, on the other hand, brings a wealth of experience into the octagon with a record of 17 wins, 6 losses, and 1 draw. Known for his striking ability, particularly his karate-based style, Thompson has been a prominent figure in the welterweight division for years. His recent fights include a victory over Kevin Holland in March 2023 at UFC Fight Night, which showed the 40 year old still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. Thompson’s skill set, characterized by his striking accuracy and movement, poses a unique challenge for any opponent.
Fight Analysis
This matchup is a compelling blend of Rakhmonov’s well-rounded skill set and Thompson’s striking expertise. Rakhmonov’s ability to engage effectively both in stand-up and on the ground, combined with his undefeated record, makes him one of, if not the toughest fight in the division. Meanwhile, Thompson’s experience and striking acumen could play a crucial role in this bout. The fight depends on Wonderboy being able to keep the fight on the feet, and Rakhmonov getting Thompson to the ground should he be falling behind in the striking game.
Official Results & Highlights
Round 1 – Tentative start from both men. Shavkat attempts to take Thompson down but good defensive work from the veteran sees him remain on the feet. Shavkat controls Thompson against the cage for majority of the round. As we approach the final minute, Thompson escapes and lands a couple of nice kicks to close the round. Not too much action in Round 1.
Round 2 – The second round starts with ‘Wonderboy’ leading the dance on the feet. Shavkat, frustratingly, yet understandably, attempts another takedown but again it is defended. Shavkat controls Thompson against the fence. Again, not much happening but Shavkat gets the takedown. Rakhmonov has the rear-naked choke in! It’s tight!… ‘Wonderboy’ refuses to tap and somehow managed to slip free. Shavkat continues to look for submissions and he sinks in the rear-naked choke at the second attempt. Thompson taps with just five seconds left in the round.
Shavkat Rakhmonov becomes the first man to submit Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson. That’s now 18 fights, 18 wins, 18 finishes.
Result: Shavkat Rakhmonov defeats Stephen Thompson via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) in Round 2
Highlights:
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
