Shavkat Rakhmonov, currently sidelined due to a serious ankle injury sustained while preparing for UFC 296, has been noticeably absent from competition in 2024.
However, fans recently had seen into his off-duty life when he shared footage of his vacation in China with none other than Li Jingliang, a surprising travel companion for the No.3-ranked welterweight.
The video sparked a flurry of reactions from fans across social media platforms. Among them, user @rafik_raphique raised an unexpected query, asking about Rakhmonov’s observance of Ramadan:
“You don’t fast? I thought you are Muslim.”
In contrast, @abdulkarimsabra offered words of encouragement and prediction, expressing belief in Rakhmonov’s future championship status:
“One day you gonna be the Champion so stay humble and be different.”
@chaoyang_5t5 took a moment to appreciate Jingliang’s hosting skills, praising him with applause emojis:
“@lijingliangmma great host!!!!”
Likewise, @azizbek_ruz88 voiced support for Rakhmonov, emphasizing his ethnic background and upbringing, illustrating the global reach of Rakhmonov’s fanbase.
Adding to the buzz, Jack Della Maddalena, fresh from his victory over Gilbert Burns in UFC 299, threw down the gauntlet, calling out Rakhmonov for a future bout.
Rakhmonov, while respectful, warned Maddalena of facing a similar fate to his previous opponents.
In an interview with Brett Okamoto of ESPN, Maddalena reiterated his interest in a showdown with Rakhmonov, envisioning it as a significant title eliminator fight slated for early August.
Despite the eagerness of both fighters and the potential excitement for fans, the fate of a Rakhmonov vs. Maddalena matchup remains uncertain.
With both athletes in their prime, boasting impressive rankings and winning streaks, the UFC may opt to hold off on this clash, saving it for a future event where the anticipation and stakes could be even higher.
In the meantime, fans continue to eagerly await updates from Rakhmonov and his unexpected adventures, whether in the octagon or on vacation with unlikely companions like Li Jingliang.
