Rakhmonov and Morales Near UFC Returns Following Layoffs
Top welterweight contenders Shavkat Rakhmonov and Michael Morales could both be nearing returns to the Octagon after extended periods of inactivity.
· VILLAND PICK editorial
Top UFC welterweight contenders Shavkat Rakhmonov and Michael Morales may not be sidelined for much longer following extended periods away from competition, MMA Fighting reported.
Rakhmonov has been out of action since December 2024 due to persistent knee injuries. The health setbacks kept him from immediately capitalizing on his victory over Ian Machado Garry, who went on to challenge champion Islam Makhachev for the welterweight title.
Morales has also been waiting for his next booking since defeating Sean Brady in November 2025. The rising contender emerged as a viable title challenger after stringing together three consecutive first-round knockout victories over Neil Magny, Gilbert Burns, and Brady.
Morales recently released a video calling out several key welterweight figures, putting champion Makhachev, Carlos Prates, Machado Garry, and Rakhmonov on notice as he seeks his next fight.
Sources
This article was written by VILLAND PICK based on the reports listed above. Original articles are not reproduced.