Why Shavkat Rakhmonov is Poised to be a UFC Champion by 2025
Why Shavkat Rakhmonov is Poised to be a UFC Champion by 2025
By Ali Hammad September 09, 2024 10:53
Shavkat Rakhmonov is a name that has been buzzing around in the mixed martial arts (MMA) community as of late as he continues his ascent in the UFC. Under his alias "Nomad," he carries a gaudy record reflecting 18 wins without a loss, distributed relatively even among knockouts and submissions.
Fighting Style
Sambo, the martial arts and combat boxing sport that originated in the Soviet Union, combines modern MMA techniques with Rakhmonov's fighting style. This 6'1", 171-pounder is exceptional at using his long reach and height to dominate fights. His orthodox stance enables him to pack a significant punch, and his Sambo background gives him elite grappling abilities.
His striking is accurate and usually allows him to ground or submit his opponents. With the ability to finish a fight anywhere in the blink of an eye, he is one versatile fighter who can adjust himself against any style of opponent.
Training and Preparation
He trains at Kill Cliff FC alongside a team of veteran coaches and fighters who know how to get the best out of him. It has taken back-to-back fight camps for Shavkat to prepare the full breadth of his skillset: part strength and conditioning, part drill work, all wrapped up with a healthy dose of sparring.
A particularly interesting part of Rakhmonov's preparation has been his emphasis on increasing the volume and accuracy of punches he lands and plugging in any holes that currently exist defensively. This can be seen in his past couple of fights as he has worked on gaining more head movement and footwork, which makes him harder to hit.
Future Challenges
While Rakhmonov ascends, a host of potential welterweight challengers awaits. Tough fighters like Leon Edwards, Kamaru Usman, and Colby Covington lie on his path to challenge the belt again. All three of these fighters present Rakhmonov with a specific threat danger that he will have to work out how to navigate and hopefully exploit.
The path of Shavkat Rakhmonov to the summit of 170 lbs in the UFC screams style versus adaptability. He remains undefeated, has a polished striking and grappling skill set, and is starting to gain popularity with fans. So, by 2025, he could very well be the one who becomes UFC champion. The 26-year-old has shown himself to be a bona fide contender after impressive recent wins over high-level competition, and he remains dangerous for anyone in the division as long as his path of development continues.
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