Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Manager Shuts Down January Comeback Rumours

Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Manager Shuts Down January Comeback Rumours

Shavkat Rakhmonov’s expected UFC return remains uncertain after his manager, Daniel Rubenstein, rejected speculation linking the unbeaten welterweight to a January 2027 comeback against Jack Della Maddalena. Rubenstein addressed the rumours on October 30 but offered no alternative date, opponent or timeline for Rakhmonov’s return.

Rakhmonov, who holds a 19-0 professional record, last fought on December 7, 2024, when he defeated Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision. The prolonged absence has kept fans waiting for the Kazakh contender to return, but his management’s latest clarification provides no indication of when he will fight again.

Meanwhile, the UFC has scheduled Carlos Prates to face Michael Morales for the interim welterweight title at UFC 336 on January 30, 2027, in Toronto. Della Maddalena, a former champion, is also coming off a stoppage loss to Prates in May 2026. For now, neither a Rakhmonov comeback date nor a future opponent has been confirmed.