“But They Didn’t Remove Colby”- Fans Furious as Shavkat Rakhmonov Is Dropped From Welterweight Rankings

Despite his 18-0 record and major wins, the UFC controversially removed Shavkat Rakhmonov from the welterweight top 15 rankings.

“But They Didn’t Remove Colby”- Fans Furious as Shavkat Rakhmonov Is Dropped From Welterweight Rankings

Shavkat Rakhmonov gets removed from UFC rankings (via X)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

The UFC roster is home to some of the biggest stars in mixed martial arts, representing the highest level of competition in the sport. With such a demanding environment, roster changes are inevitable, as fighters are often removed for a variety of reasons. Still, the recent removal of top welterweight contender Shavkat Rakhmonov came as a major surprise to both fans and analysts.

The shocking development comes after Rakhmonov has spent more than a year on the sidelines recovering from a serious knee injury. Many expected the unbeaten Kazakh standout to make a strong return in the near future, but growing uncertainty has begun to replace that early optimism.

Rakhmonov recently addressed the situation on Instagram, revealing that his recovery has hit another setback. According to the 18-0 phenomenon, complications in the healing process required an additional surgical procedure, further delaying his long-awaited comeback.

Today, I have to be honest: due to ongoing injuries, I’ve had another surgery and will need time to fully recover. As a result, my return to the Octagon will be postponed. It’s not easy to accept, but I truly believe every setback is part of a bigger plan. I will come back stronger, smarter, and hungrier than ever. My goal is still alive. The UFC belt still has to come to Kazakhstan.

Shavkat Rakhmonov via Instagram

Following the message from Rakhmonov, the UFC has decided to remove the fighter from the current welterweight rankings entirely. Previously ranked #2 in the division, he was widely expected to challenge for the title immediately upon returning. However, it now seems the promotion does not want to wait on uncertain timelines or repeated injury setbacks.

As a result, the UFC made a firm decision that appeared to reflect growing frustration over reliability concerns and long-term availability. Still, the move sparked debate among fans, especially given that Colby Covington remains in the welterweight top 15 despite his own prolonged inactivity and poor recent form.

A closer look at the numbers only adds to the controversy. ‘Chaos’ has managed just two wins over the past seven years, with none of those victories coming against ranked opponents, yet he continues to sit at No. 13 in the division.

In contrast, Rakhmonov has been nothing short of dominant during that same stretch, earning six wins and defeating high-level contenders such as Ian Garry and Geoff Neal. Meanwhile, Covington’s last two appearances against Joaquin Buckley and Leon Edwards were largely one-sided, with the Buckley bout in December 2024 ending in a doctor’s stoppage.

Meanwhile, Rakhmonov was originally set to challenge Belal Muhammad for the welterweight title at UFC 310, but Muhammad withdrew due to injury. Garry stepped in on short notice, pushing Rakhmonov to a razor-close fight that tested the Kazakh contender and diminished some of his undefeated aura.

Since then, the welterweight division has undergone major changes, with Jack Della Maddalena winning the belt from Muhammad before losing it to Islam Makhachev. Fans were hoping for a blockbuster matchup between Makhachev and Rakhmonov, but that fight will have to be delayed.

Fight fans react to UFC removing Shavkat Rakhmonov following injury update

Shavkat Rakhmonov is undefeated in the UFC, defeating elite names like Stephen Thompson and Geoff Neal convincingly through dominant performances. He also carries an intimidating aura, repeatedly praised by analysts and fighters for composure and finishing instincts inside the cage.

During his absence, the welterweight division evolved rapidly, producing new contenders like Michael Morales, Ian Garry, and Carlos Prates. 

Shavkat Rakhmonov fighting Ian Garry
Shavkat Rakhmonov fighting Ian Garry (via X)

These rising fighters secured statement victories and are desperate for title opportunities against Islam Makhachev next within the organization hierarchy. Meanwhile, veteran Kamaru Usman is positioning himself for one final run at championship glory before time catches up completely.

The Dagestani champion has shown interest, leaving future matchups dependent on what the UFC decides regarding divisional priorities. With that context, fans and analysts reacted strongly to the recent decision removing Rakhmonov from rankings across social media platforms.

As already stated, many fans were surprised by the exit, while others believed the decision was fully deserved and long overdue. However, the biggest debate centered on why Colby Covington remained ranked despite a year-long inactivity and suffering a two-fight losing streak.

Many supporters questioned the criteria, noting similar fighters were removed faster, raising concerns about fairness and transparency in rankings decisions.

Also Read: