Rakhmonov issues statement following cancellation of UFC title bout

Kazakhstan's unbeaten fighter Shavkat Rakhmonov has spoken out about the cancellation of his title fight against Belal Muhammad.

«I wish Belal a speedy recovery. We will meet when you're ready at 100%. I'm ready to take on any contender for the interim belt at UFC 310,» Rakhmonov wrote on social media.

Earlier, Muhammad confirmed the news that he would be unable to face Rakhmonov at the UFC 310 event, citing the reason for the fight's cancellation. Muhammad became the UFC champion in the summer of 2024, claiming victory over Leon Edwards by unanimous decision. The American fighter of Palestinian descent holds a record of 24 wins and three losses in MMA.

Shavkat Rakhmonov has won all 18 of his professional mixed martial arts bouts. The 29-year-old Kazakh last competed in December 2023, securing a victory over Stephen Thompson with a choke hold.