Will Kamaru Usman receive the next UFC welterweight title shot due to Shavkat Rakhmonov’s injury?

Following news of a knee injury recurrence sidelining Shavkat Rakhmonov, uncertainty has emerged in the UFC welterweight title picture. MMA analyst and former fighter Chael Sonnen argued that the promotion should move quickly to appoint a new top contender and described Kamaru Usman as the most obvious choice. Rakhmonov has not competed since December 2024, and his injury is expected to keep him inactive for an extended period, potentially disrupting previously anticipated title plans. Sonnen also highlighted the stylistic intrigue of a potential title fight between Usman and reigning champion Islam Makhachev, suggesting the matchup would test both fighters in new ways. While some analysts, including Luke Thomas, caution that Rakhmonov may re-enter the title picture after recovery, the key uncertainty is whether the Ultimate Fighting Championship prioritizes divisional momentum and star power in the near term—or opts to wait for Rakhmonov’s return before finalizing the next championship bout.