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 fighter. Buckley believes that Rakhmonov's absence from the UFC scene for an extended period, coupled with his recent knee injury, could spell the end of his UFC career.
Rakhmonov, with an impressive record of 19-0 in MMA and 7-0 in the UFC, hasn't fought since December 2024, when he defeated Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310. Since then, he's been sidelined due to a re-injured knee, which has kept him out of action for almost two years. This prolonged absence has led to his removal from the UFC's welterweight rankings.
But here's where it gets controversial: Buckley suggests that the UFC might not be too keen on keeping Rakhmonov around, especially with his extended absence. He theorizes that the UFC could potentially cut ties with the fighter, especially if he continues to be inactive.
"They knocked him out of the rankings, and now they might just get rid of him. He's been out of action for so long, and that's a big concern for the UFC." Buckley explained on his podcast.
And this is the part most people miss: Buckley believes that the UFC's strategy with certain fighters is to wait for them to "waste their money" and become desperate for a fight. He uses Colby Covington as an example, who, like Rakhmonov, hasn't fought since December 2024 but remains in the rankings. Buckley suggests that the UFC is waiting for Covington to become financially desperate, at which point they can use him as a "nice little card" to promote other fighters.
But Buckley's prediction for Rakhmonov is even more dire. He goes as far as saying that the undefeated former No. 1 contender won't compete in the UFC again.
"I predict that we won't see Shavkat in the UFC ever again. He's not a content creator like Colby. He's not keeping his name out there, and that's a problem. The fans will lose interest, and they'll forget about him. And then, the UFC will send him back to Kazakhstan." Buckley said.
This prediction has sparked a heated debate among MMA fans and experts. Some agree with Buckley's assessment, believing that the UFC's rankings and fighter management strategies can be ruthless. Others argue that Rakhmonov's talent and record speak for themselves, and he deserves a chance to return and prove his worth.
What do you think? Is Buckley's prediction accurate, or is he being too harsh on the UFC and Rakhmonov? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss this controversial take!
