Overview
- Rakhmonov re-injured his knee, underwent another operation, and is expected to miss at least nine months according to reports, with some fighters predicting a longer layoff into 2027.
- The rankings update immediately reshuffled welterweight contenders, moving Ian Machado Garry to No. 2 and adding Michael “Venom” Page to the final top-15 slot.
- Former champion Kamaru Usman criticized the move as inconsistent, citing Jon Jones’ past retention in rankings during a long layoff.
- Usman urged Rakhmonov to change training camps and prioritize long-term health to avoid further setbacks.
- Welterweight Sean Brady cast doubt on a swift return, calling Rakhmonov “cooked” and questioning why Colby Covington remains ranked despite limited recent success.