Get ready for a bold prediction that might just shake up the UFC world!
The Future of Shavkat Rakhmonov: A Controversial Take
In a recent podcast episode, Joaquin Buckley dropped a bombshell prediction about the future of Shavkat Rakhmonov, the undefeated MMA warrior. Buckley believes that Rakhmonov's career in the UFC might be over, and here's why.
Rakhmonov, with an impressive record of 19-0 in MMA and 7-0 in the UFC, has been sidelined due to a re-injured knee. This injury has kept him out of the ring since his victory over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310 in December 2024. As a result, the UFC has removed him from the welterweight rankings, and Buckley believes this could be the beginning of the end for Rakhmonov's UFC journey.
But here's where it gets controversial... Buckley theorizes that the UFC might be strategically removing certain fighters from the rankings to make room for new talent and promote their own agenda. He uses the example of Colby Covington, who hasn't fought since December 2024 but remains in the rankings. According to Buckley, the UFC is waiting for Covington to 'waste his money' and eventually face a defeat, which will create an opening for another fighter to climb the rankings.
And this is the part most people miss... Buckley argues that Rakhmonov's absence from the ring, coupled with his lack of content creation and self-promotion, has put him at a disadvantage. Unlike Covington, who keeps his name relevant through various channels, Rakhmonov hasn't been actively engaging with his fans or the media. Buckley believes this could lead to a loss of interest from fans, ultimately resulting in Rakhmonov's departure from the UFC.
Buckley goes even further, stating, "I'm going to make this prediction right now: We never see Shavkat in the UFC again." He emphasizes that Rakhmonov's lack of content creation and negative media attention could lead to a decline in fan interest, and the UFC might decide to send him back to Kazakhstan.
So, what do you think? Is Buckley's prediction too harsh, or is he onto something? Could the UFC's ranking system and promotion strategies be a double-edged sword for fighters like Rakhmonov? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! The MMA community is buzzing with this controversial take, and we want to hear your opinions!
