LAS VEGAS – Shavkat Rakhmonov couldn’t maintain his 100 percent completion percentage, but he maintained his undefeated status.

The UFC welterweight contender picked up a unanimous decision victory over Ian Machado Garry (15-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) in the co-main event of UFC 310 on Saturday. It was a big win for Rakhmonov (19-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC), as it sends him to fight champion Belal Muhammad for the UFC welterweight title. Although it is a big win, Rakhmonov has lost the ability to say that he has stopped all his rivals.

“Who doesn’t want to finish fights?” That’s what Rakhmonov told reporters at the UFC 310 post-fight press conference. “I did everything in my power to make this happen but Ian had a great preparation but I believe I will continue my winning streak in the next fight.”

Rakhmonov’s main goal was to raise his hand by any means possible – which he succeeded in doing.

“For me the most important thing is the victory and I am glad that I won,” said Rakhmonov.

The Kazakh, who trained with Machado Garry at Kill Cliff in the past, respects Machado Garry and felt a great improvement since the two last trained together. Rakhmonov expects this to be the first of many future meetings with his former teammate.

“Absolutely,” said Rakhmonov. “We’re going to keep winning and if he keeps winning, we’ll see each other again.”

As for what comes next, it’s pretty clear that a title shot will follow. Rakhmonov wants this to happen in the spring of 2025.

“I am the No. 1 title contender and hopefully in April or May next year we will compete against each other,” Rakhmonov said.

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This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Shavkat Rakhmonov proud of Ian Machado Garry’s win despite falling short at UFC 310