After nearly two years away from competition, Shavkat Rakhmonov has hinted at a potential clash with fellow undefeated welterweight Michael Morales, setting the stage for a possible high-stakes matchup between two of the division’s most dangerous contenders.
UFC welterweight contender Shavkat Rakhmonov may finally be closing in on his long-awaited return to the Octagon, and his next opponent could be another undefeated rising star.
The 19-0 Kazakh fighter recently sparked speculation about a potential showdown with Ecuador’s Michael Morales (19-0) after sharing a cryptic TikTok post referencing a battle between two undefeated fighters.
The post, captioned “19-0 vs. 19-0,” immediately drew attention from MMA fans, particularly after Morales publicly expressed interest in facing Shavkat Rakhmonov.
Although neither fighter has officially been booked for a bout, the possibility of two undefeated welterweight contenders putting their perfect records on the line has generated considerable interest.
Michael Morales Calls Rakhmonov the “Final Boss”
Morales has made it clear that he is ready for the biggest challenges the welterweight division has to offer.
In a recent social media video, the Ecuadorian contender called out several prominent names, including UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, Carlos Prates, Ian Machado Garry, and Rakhmonov.
Notably, Morales referred to Rakhmonov as the “final boss,” signaling his interest in testing himself against one of the division’s most formidable competitors.
Rakhmonov did not explicitly mention Morales in his TikTok post, but the timing of the message and the fighters’ matching 19-0 records have fueled speculation that the two could be headed toward a collision.
For Morales, the matchup would represent an opportunity to defeat one of the welterweight division’s most highly regarded contenders and strengthen his case for a future title opportunity.
For Rakhmonov, it would provide an opportunity to reestablish himself among the division’s elite after a prolonged absence.
Rakhmonov’s Long Road Back From Injury
Rakhmonov has not competed since December 2024, when he defeated Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 310.
The victory extended his undefeated professional record to 19-0, but persistent knee problems subsequently derailed his momentum.
The Kazakh contender underwent surgery involving his ACL and meniscus, forcing him to spend an extended period recovering rather than pursuing the welterweight championship.
During his absence, the division continued to evolve, with other contenders moving into the title picture.
Recent training updates suggest Rakhmonov has been making progress toward a return, including reports that he has resumed full sparring and more intensive preparations.
His potential comeback has become one of the more closely watched developments in the welterweight division, given his unbeaten record and reputation as a dangerous finisher.
Morales Has Built His Own Unbeaten Streak
While Rakhmonov has been recovering, Morales has continued building his reputation as one of the UFC’s most promising welterweights.
The Ecuadorian has recorded three consecutive first-round knockout victories over Neil Magny, Gilbert Burns, and Sean Brady, establishing himself as a legitimate threat to the division’s established contenders.
His most recent appearance came against Brady in November 2025.
Despite his impressive run, Morales has yet to receive another official booking, leaving both fighters searching for their next opportunity.
A matchup with Rakhmonov would present a significant challenge for Morales, whose explosive striking and knockout power would be tested against Rakhmonov’s well-rounded skill set, grappling ability, and finishing instincts.
With both fighters holding identical 19-0 records, the matchup would guarantee that one of the division’s undefeated streaks comes to an end, barring a draw or no-contest.
Could the Fight Happen in January 2027?
Speculation has pointed toward January 2027 as a possible window for Shavkat Rakhmonov’s return, with UFC 336 among the events mentioned in discussions surrounding the potential matchup.
However, the UFC has not officially announced a fight between Rakhmonov and Morales, and no date, venue, or bout agreement has been confirmed.
For now, the matchup remains a possibility rather than a finalized contest.
Nevertheless, the prospect of Rakhmonov and Morales meeting inside the Octagon presents an intriguing scenario for the welterweight division.
Both fighters have maintained perfect professional records, both have established themselves as legitimate contenders, and both are seeking an opportunity to move closer to championship contention.
For Rakhmonov, a victory would mark a successful return after a lengthy injury layoff. For Morales, defeating the undefeated Kazakh contender could become the defining achievement of his career.
Whether the UFC ultimately makes the fight official remains to be seen, but Rakhmonov’s latest social media activity suggests that a battle of undefeated welterweights may be on the horizon.
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