Islam Makhachev has pushed back against Shavkat Rakhmonov’s candidacy for a welterweight title shot, arguing that prolonged inactivity undermines contender status.

Makhachev, who recently moved up to welterweight after vacating the lightweight championship, pointed to Rakhmonov’s absence from competition as a reason he should not be next in line for the belt. “A contender can’t sit out for a year with injuries and then come fight for the belt,” said Makhachev, according to MMA Fighting, while discussing the fallout of last Saturday’s UFC Qatar event.

Makhachev also referenced Rakhmonov by name, adding: “He hasn’t fought for over a year.”

Reaction from Rakhmonov’s camp has not been formally issued, though some observers note the former opponent of Makhachev at welterweight, Ian Machado Garry, is also making a push for a title shot after his victory over former champion (and Makhachev training partner) Belal Muhammad . Meanwhile the promotion appears to be weighing several contenders before naming Makhachev’s next opponent, including Michael Morales and Carlos Prates.

Next steps include the promotion publicly announcing an official challenger for Makhachev’s welterweight title, which could clarify whether Rakhmonov remains in consideration or falls behind other active fighters. The timing of Makhachev’s next fight is expected to be disclosed within the coming weeks.

For context, Rakhmonov won a title-eliminator bout in late 2024 over Machado Garry but has since been sidelined with injury. Makhachev relinquished his lightweight belt after claiming the welterweight title, clearing the field for contenders in both divisions.