Rakhmonov hints at Morales showdown in cryptic '19-0 vs 19-0' post after two-year absence

Shavkat Rakhmonov appears to be targeting a return fight against UFC welterweight contender Michael Morales, dropping a pointed hint on TikTok with the caption “19-0 vs 19-0” — a record shared only by the two fighters in the division. Rakhmonov also posted a spider emoji, widely recognised as Morales’ personal logo, alongside the year “2027”, further fuelling speculation.

Rakhmonov has not competed since defeating Ian Garry nearly two years ago, sidelined by recurring knee injuries that required surgery and ultimately saw him removed from the official UFC welterweight rankings. As recently as this past summer, the Kazakhstani fighter — known as “Nomad” — was spotted wearing a protective boot, making the apparent return tease all the more significant.

Morales, for his part, has kept himself firmly in the title picture during Rakhmonov’s absence. The Ecuadorian has strung together consecutive first-round knockouts against Neil Magny, Gilbert Burns and Sean Brady, cementing his status as one of the division’s most dangerous contenders. He has also recently hinted at a fight booking, adding credibility to the idea that a matchup is in the works.

Before his injury setbacks, Rakhmonov had been on the verge of a welterweight title shot. A fight against Morales would effectively serve as a title eliminator, with the winner positioning themselves as the next challenger behind Carlos Prates, who is currently considered the front-runner to face champion Islam Makhachev.

Neither the UFC nor either fighter’s management has officially confirmed the bout, and the social media exchange remains unverified by any formal announcement. Still, with both men undefeated and hungry for a path back to the top, the pieces appear to be falling into place for one of the most compelling welterweight matchups the division could offer.