Shavkat Rakhmonov Edges Out Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310, Secures Title Shot

Rakhmonov's victory positions him as the next challenger for Belal Muhammad's welterweight belt, while Islam Makhachev eyes potential cross-divisional matchups.

Shavkat Rakhmonov defeated Ian Machado Garry via unanimous decision at UFC 310, ending his 100% finishing streak but solidifying his status as the top welterweight contender.
Rakhmonov was originally scheduled to fight champion Belal Muhammad, but Muhammad withdrew due to a severe toe infection, leading to a short-notice bout with Garry.
Despite Garry's near submission in the fifth round, Rakhmonov's clinch control and grappling secured the victory, setting up a likely title fight with Muhammad in 2025.
Islam Makhachev, the lightweight champion, is considering a move to welterweight and has expressed interest in a potential matchup with Rakhmonov if he wins the title.
Makhachev's immediate focus remains his UFC 311 bout against Arman Tsarukyan, a rematch with high stakes for his lightweight belt and future champ-champ aspirations.