A potential showdown between Kamaru Usman and Shavkat Rakhmonov may happen someday, but it won’t take place at UFC 310.
Rakhmonov was originally scheduled to challenge Belal Muhammad for the UFC Welterweight Championship on December 7 at UFC 310, set to be held at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. However, Muhammad had to withdraw due to a bone infection in his foot, sparking rumors that Usman could step in as a replacement.
Usman Addresses Rumors
In response to the speculation, former UFC welterweight champ Kamaru Usman addressed the rumors on the “Pound 4 Pound” podcast. He explained that while he’s interested in a fight with Rakhmonov, he won’t be fighting him at UFC 310.
“To be honest, it’s a fight that I’ve looked at, and I know it’s very, very winnable. I believe I can go out there and expose what hasn’t been exposed in Shavkat Rakhmonov,” Usman said. “He’s talented, but I see the holes and think I can exploit them when the time is right. December 7th might be a little too early for that.”
What’s Next for Rakhmonov?
It’s unclear if the UFC will find a new opponent for Rakhmonov at UFC 310 or wait for Muhammad’s return. Fans may have to wait until a later event to see Rakhmonov’s title shot.