The UFC welterweight division is filled with dynamic fighters, and the question on every fan’s mind is simple: who will be the next welterweight contender for the title?
Islam Makhachev continues to dominate at lightweight, but his excellence has inspired a wave of rising stars across neighboring divisions.
Shavkat Rakhmonov, Ian Garry, and Nassourdine Imavov are among those emerging as top contenders ready to shape the future of the UFC’s 170-pound class.
This article breaks down their recent fights, records, fighting styles, and paths toward the championship, along with insights into who stands closest to a title shot.
Also read- Quillan Salkilld Becomes The New Problem In UFC Lightweight Division
Next Welterweight Contender
The UFC’s welterweight division has never been more competitive.
Veterans continue to defend their rankings, while young, hungry contenders are pushing the pace with fresh energy and evolving fight styles.
Fighters like Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Garry have become mainstays in top-10 discussions, both undefeated and eager to face elite opponents.
Meanwhile, Nassourdine Imavov, primarily a middleweight, has shown qualities that make him a potential crossover threat.
While Islam Makhachev reigns at lightweight, his dominance serves as a benchmark for technical excellence across all divisions.
Shavkat Rakhmonov – The Unstoppable Force
Record: Undefeated
Division: Welterweight
Style: Complete mixed martial artist (striking and grappling)
Notable Wins: Neil Magny, Geoff Neal, Stephen Thompson
Shavkat Rakhmonov has quickly become one of the most feared fighters in the UFC.
His balanced mix of elite grappling, powerful striking, and calm fight IQ makes him one of the most well-rounded contenders on the roster.
In his recent fights, Rakhmonov showcased finishing ability, technical precision, and composure under pressure.
His submission win over Geoff Neal proved his ground dominance, while his striking improvements have turned him into a dual-threat.
Strengths:
- Excellent submission grappling
- Striking power with calculated precision
- High fight IQ and adaptability
Weaknesses:
- Limited experience against top-3 opponents
- Unproven in championship rounds
Path to the Title:
If Rakhmonov continues his streak with another dominant win against a top-5 opponent, it’s only a matter of time before the UFC grants him a title shot.
His undefeated record and balanced style make him the division’s most natural next challenger.
Ian Machado Garry – The Irish Technician
Record: 14-0 (undefeated)
Division: Welterweight
Style: Technical striker with great movement
Notable Wins: Daniel Rodriguez, Neil Magny, Geoff Neal
Ian Garry’s rise in the UFC has been marked by confidence, charisma, and skill.
Known for his sharp boxing, counterstriking, and defensive movement, Garry has often drawn comparisons to a young Conor McGregor — but with a calmer, more tactical approach.
In recent performances, Garry showed great composure, dominating opponents with crisp jab combinations and intelligent distance control.
His unanimous decision victories over experienced names show his ability to manage fights smartly rather than relying solely on knockouts.
Strengths:
- Clean and accurate striking
- Exceptional footwork and timing
- Great fight IQ and composure
Weaknesses:
- Needs stronger wrestling defense against elite grapplers
- Still gaining experience in five-round fights
Path to the Title:
Garry is a marketable fighter with star potential. If he can secure a convincing win over a top-5 opponent especially a wrestler or grappler, it could fast-track him to a title eliminator or even a title shot.
His undefeated record and Irish fan base also make him a promotional favorite for the UFC.
Nassourdine Imavov – The Silent Middleweight Threat
Record: 14-4 (with recent high-profile wins)
Division: Middleweight (potential crossover contender)
Style: Precise striker with improving grappling
Notable Wins: Joaquin Buckley, Roman Dolidze, Jared Cannonier
Though Imavov primarily fights at middleweight, his rise has made him one of the most talked-about fighters across divisions.
His striking is polished, patient, and efficient, and his performances in main events have earned him multiple Performance of the Night bonuses.
Imavov’s ability to pick opponents apart and finish fights with accuracy and power has impressed analysts.
His main-event TKO win this year confirmed that he’s now among the elite.
Strengths:
- Precise and powerful striking
- Excellent distance management
- Increasingly confident in high-pressure fights
Weaknesses:
- Limited grappling experience against elite wrestlers
- Mostly untested at welterweight if he decides to move down
Path to the Title:
If Imavov stays at middleweight, he’s one or two big wins away from a title eliminator.
However, his frame and skillset could allow him to transition down to welterweight if opportunities align.
He’s a technical fighter with the skill to challenge anyone across two divisions.
Islam Makhachev – The Lightweight Benchmark
Record: 26-1
Division: Lightweight Champion
Style: Sambo-based grappler with strong striking improvements
Notable Wins: Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski (twice)
Islam Makhachev’s dominance at lightweight has been nothing short of remarkable.
His combination of elite wrestling, top-tier submission defense, and improved striking make him one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC.
While Makhachev has not competed at welterweight, he often gets mentioned in discussions about cross-division greatness.
His methodical approach and consistency have set the standard that rising stars like Rakhmonov and Garry aspire to reach.
Why Mention Makhachev Here?
Because he represents what it takes to dominate at the elite level — composure, adaptability, and precision.
His success serves as the blueprint for any fighter looking to become a champion, regardless of weight class.
Potential Matchups That Will Define the Future
The UFC’s welterweight picture could become clearer with a few key matchups:
- Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Leon Edwards: A stylistic war between a complete fighter and a champion with elite striking.
- Ian Garry vs. Belal Muhammad: Garry’s striking against Muhammad’s pressure wrestling would test his grappling defense.
- Imavov vs. Khamzat Chimaev: If Imavov transitions divisions, this could be an explosive fight between two powerful strikers with strong ground games.
Each matchup could determine who becomes the true “next in line” for a title opportunity.
Fight Records and Momentum Summary
| Fighter | Division | Record | Strengths | Current Momentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shavkat Rakhmonov | Welterweight | Undefeated | Grappling + striking mix | Rising fast |
| Ian Garry | Welterweight | Undefeated | Technical striking | Top-10 contender |
| Nassourdine Imavov | Middleweight | 14-4 | Power striking | Coming off main-event win |
| Islam Makhachev | Lightweight | 26-1 | Sambo grappling, control | Dominant champion |
Style Analysis – Who Matches Up Best?
- Rakhmonov vs. Garry: Rakhmonov’s pressure and ground control could neutralize Garry’s striking if the fight hits the mat. However, Garry’s footwork and range could frustrate Rakhmonov if he maintains distance.
- Garry vs. Muhammad: Garry must prove his takedown defense and clinch escape under relentless wrestling pressure.
- Imavov vs. Strikers: Imavov’s timing and counterpunching give him the upper hand against aggressive brawlers who lack defensive awareness.
What Fans Should Expect Next
- Activity Will Define Contenders: Rakhmonov and Garry must stay active. Consistent wins keep momentum alive.
- Performance Bonuses Matter: Fighters who earn finishes and bonuses get noticed faster.
- Marketability Counts: The UFC rewards fighters who draw fan interest and media attention. Garry’s personality gives him an edge here.
- Championship-Level Conditioning: Fighters who can go five hard rounds will separate themselves from the rest.
Prediction – Who’s Next for the Title?
- Most Likely Next Title Challenger: Shavkat Rakhmonov — he’s the most complete fighter at welterweight, undefeated, and capable of winning anywhere the fight goes.
- Fastest Rising Star: Ian Garry — a fan favorite with media pull and polished striking.
- Future Dual-Division Threat: Nassourdine Imavov — his technical improvement and knockout power make him a contender at 185 and potentially 170.
Conclusion
The future of the welterweight division is bright.
Shavkat Rakhmonov’s dominance, Ian Garry’s technical brilliance, and Nassourdine Imavov’s emerging power all point to a new era of talent ready to challenge the established elite.
Meanwhile, Islam Makhachev continues to set the championship standard that others aim to reach.
Fans can expect an exciting year ahead as these fighters compete for dominance — and the right to be called the next true welterweight contender.
Ashish Lavania is a dedicated combat sports analyst and the mind behind some of the most detailed breakdowns in modern fight media. Specializing in UFC, MMA, and boxing analysis, Ashish combines deep technical knowledge with a fan-first approach, delivering insights that are easy to understand yet backed by real fighting IQ.