Here's a bold statement: Shavkat Rakhmonov's career might be on the brink of collapse, and it’s not just about his injuries. But here's where it gets controversial—while some see his extended absence as a setback, others argue it could be the end of his prime. Let’s dive into why Sean Brady thinks Rakhmonov is 'cooked' and explore the bigger questions surrounding his future in the UFC.
On February 6, 2026, Sean Brady didn’t hold back during his podcast, The BradyBagz Show. He expressed deep concern for Rakhmonov, whose recent knee re-injury and subsequent surgery are expected to keep him out of the octagon for at least nine months. Rakhmonov, undefeated at 19-0 (7-0 in the UFC), hasn’t fought since his victory over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310 in December 2024. Brady, however, believes the layoff will stretch well into 2027. 'Bro, he’s cooked,' Brady bluntly stated. 'He hasn’t fought since the end of 2024, missed all of 2025, and now this. How do you even come back from that? Are you a shadow of your former self? It’s got to be terrifying to step back into training.'
And this is the part most people miss—Rakhmonov’s absence isn’t just about physical recovery. It’s about the mental toll of prolonged inactivity and the UFC’s unforgiving landscape. As Brady pointed out, 'UFC don’t do that sh*t. No starter meals.' When Rakhmonov returns, he’ll likely face a top contender, not a tune-up fight. Can he handle the pressure after such a long hiatus? That’s the million-dollar question.
Adding to the controversy, Brady called out the UFC’s welterweight rankings, specifically Colby Covington’s continued presence. 'How the fck is Colby still in the rankings?' Brady asked. Covington, who turns 38 this year, hasn’t won a fight since 2022 and last fought in 2024. 'Get that btch-ass motherf*cker out of the rankings,' Brady demanded. This raises a broader issue: How does the UFC determine rankings, and is it fair to keep inactive fighters in the mix?
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is the UFC’s ranking system outdated, or is it intentionally designed to keep big names relevant? Let’s discuss in the comments. Whether you agree with Brady’s take or think he’s overreacting, one thing is clear—Rakhmonov’s journey back to the top won’t be easy. Will he return as a contender, or will his legacy be defined by what could have been? Only time will tell.
