Undefeated UFC welterweight fighter Shavkat Rakhmonov has already caught wind of Joaquin Buckley’s most recent callout and “Nomad” is not interested in wasting his time on the “big mouth” contender.
On Friday, Buckley took to social media to release a callout video targeting Rakhmonov. This stems from some back-and-forth earlier in the week. This time around, Buckley pulled no punches, stating that he’d “f—k up” Rakhmonov in a potential clash. Buckley also said he’d be willing to fight anyone at 170 pounds that would get him to a matchup with Shavkat.
Sounds like “New Mansa” really doesn’t like his welterweight counterpart.
Rakhmonov, 31, has been sidelined since a decision win over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310 just over one year ago. The undefeated contender is expected to make his return in early 2026, but nothing has been made official. While Rakhmonov was on the cusp of his first-ever UFC title shot after his last appearance an extended absence from competition could impact his title fight chances in 2026.
Early Saturday, Rakhmonov responded to Buckley yet again. “Nomad” labeled Buckley “delusional” and stated that he’d rather fight Kamaru Usman than spend any time worrying about “New Mansa.”
“You are delusional,” wrote Rakhmonov. “I’d rather fight the guy who just whooped you than waste time on you kid. You can be my third option big mouth.”
Thoughts on this budding welterweight rivalry?