Shavkat ‘Nomad’ Rakhmonov, born on October 23, 1994, in Shoʻrchi, Uzbekistan, is a professional mixed martial artist who is the third-ranked contender in the welterweight division (170 lbs) of the UFC as of December 3, 2024. Known for his 100% finish rate and undefeated record, Rakhmonov quickly ascended through the ranks with the perfect blend of striking and grappling.
The Kazakh fighter started his professional career in MMA in 2014 and made his UFC debut in 2020. He has notable wins against Stephen Thompson, Geoff Neal, and Neil Magny. His win against Neal at UFC 285 earned him the "Fight of the Night" honors. However, his biggest victory came on December 16, 2023, when he defeated Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson via submission in the second round. Heading into UFC 310, Rakhmonov boasts an undefeated record of 18 wins in 18 outings (18-0-0) and his next fight is a potential title eliminator against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310 on December 7, 2024.
Shavkat Rakhmonov's Hat
Shavkat Rakhmonov, who goes by the moniker "Nomad", enters the octagon with a headgear called a "malakhai", made from wolf fur. The wolf is an animal that plays an important role in Kazakh folklore, representing strength, bravery, and a warrior spirit.
This headpiece is often worn by Rakhmonov during his walkouts, octagon interviews, and ceremonial weigh-ins, underlining not only his linkage to his ancestors but also his role as the cultural ambassador of Kazakhstan. Often similarities are drawn between him and UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, who also brought attention to Dagestani culture by wearing traditional headgear.
Early Life and Career
Shavkat Rakhmonov was born on October 23, 1994, in Shoʻrchi, Uzbekistan, to a Kazakh family of the Altynbay clan and Konyrat tribe. He began his career in amateur MMA, winning the 2013 WMMAA World Championship and becoming WMMAA's Asian champion in 2014.
As a professional, he debuted in 2014 with a first-round submission victory and competed primarily in M-1 Global and Kazakhstan's KZMMAF. Rakhmonov won the KZMMAF welterweight title in 2015 and the M-1 Welterweight Championship in 2019. Rakhmonov made history in 2020, becoming the first Kazakh fighter to sign with the UFC.
Also Read: What did Laura Sanko say about Shavkat?
FAQs on why does Shavkat wear a hat?
A. Shavkat Rakhmonov wears a traditional Kazakh headpiece called the "Malakhai".
A. Shavkat Rakhmonov's hat is made from wolf skin.
A. Shavkat Rakhmonov is of Kazakh nationality.
A. Shavkat Rakhmonov is 30 years old as of December 2024.
