The UFC welterweight division has seen significant shifts following fresh updates on fighter injuries and ranking adjustments. The focus is on Colby Covington’s continued presence in the rankings even as Shavkat Rakhmonov, a top contender, has been removed due to a prolonged injury. These latest developments come as Islam Makhachev, the reigning 170-pound champion since last November, awaits clarity on his next opponent.
Makhachev secured his place in history at UFC 310 by decisively defeating Jack Della Maddalena and becoming the sport’s eleventh two-division champion. Despite having multiple potential challengers, the situation changed drastically when Rakhmonov announced a new injury setback, forcing a long-term absence from competition.
Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Injury Forces Removal from Rankings
Shavkat Rakhmonov, undefeated at 19-0, was firmly established as a leading contender after handily beating Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310. Originally lined up to compete for the welterweight title, his title shot was postponed due to an injury to then-champion Belal Muhammad. However, in early 2025, it was Rakhmonov himself who suffered a significant injury, sidelining him indefinitely.
Recent appearances of the Kazakh fighter wearing a knee brace sparked concerns among fans and commentators alike about the severity of his condition. Following another planned surgery, Rakhmonov is expected to be out for all of 2026, which led to his official removal from the UFC welterweight rankings where he was ranked No. 2.
In response to his absence, Ian Machado Garry moved into the No. 2 position, while UFC London standout Michael “Venom” Page filled the now-open 15th spot. This shift was confirmed in an update shared by MMA journalist John Morgan.
“Shavkat Rakhmonov has been pulled from the welterweight rankings.He was listed in the eligible pool of athletes during last rankings cycle, but with injury news surfacing, he is not in latest update.Additionally, Michael ‘Venom’ Page to return to list at No. 15.” ?John Morgan, MMA Journalist
Fan Backlash Erupts Over Covington Remaining Ranked
The removal of Rakhmonov has left many fans displeased, especially given that Colby Covington remains in the top 15 despite not having fought since 2024. Covington, nicknamed “Chaos,” suffered a heavy defeat to Joaquin Buckley at a UFC Fight Night event in Tampa, marking his third unsuccessful attempt at capturing an undisputed title.
Despite similar length of inactivity between both fighters, the decision to keep Covington in the rankings while dropping Rakhmonov has sparked confusion and frustration across the community. Social media users expressed disbelief and disappointment, questioning the fairness of the rankings system.
“How is Colby still ranked then?”
“That’s insane. Colby somehow still there too and he lost his last fight around the same time Shavkat last fought.”
“Shavkat out the rankings before Colby is shocking 😭😭”
?Diego (@woza_diego)
Implications of These UFC Welterweight Ranking Decisions
The controversy highlights broader concerns about how inactivity and injury are handled within the UFC ranking framework. With both top contenders sidelined, the welterweight title picture faces uncertainty as Islam Makhachev’s next challenge remains undecided.
Fans and fighters alike may call for clearer guidelines to ensure rankings reflect current competitive status more accurately. Meanwhile, Colby Covington’s continued ranking despite inactivity fuels ongoing debate, and Rakhmonov’s injury recovery timeline suggests a lengthy absence from title contention, potentially shaping the divisional hierarchy well into 2026.
Shavkat Rakhmonov has been pulled from the welterweight rankings.
He was listed in the eligible pool of athletes during last rankings cycle, but with injury news surfacing, he is not in latest update.
Additionally, Michael "Venom" Page to return to list at No. 15. pic.twitter.com/Ot7p0AKVDC
— John Morgan (@JohnMorgan_MMA) February 3, 2026
Shavkat out the rankings before Colby is shocking 😭😭
— Diego (@woza_diego) February 3, 2026
