![[WATCH] Shavkat Rakhmonov Chokes Out Stephen Thompson With RNC At UFC 296](https://www.bjjee.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Shavkat-Rakhmonov-with-Kazahstan-flag-and-screenshot-of-RNC-finish-against-Thompson-1.jpg)
In an exciting fight at UFC 296, Shavkat Rakhmonov continued his unbeaten streak, achieving a remarkable feat…
By becoming the first fighter to submit Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson!
Rakhmonov’s strategy deviated from his known striking skills, focusing instead on grappling to neutralize Thompson’s diverse striking arsenal.
From the outset, Rakhmonov aggressively pushed the pace against Thompson, pinning him against the cage in an attempt to take the fight to the ground. Despite Thompson’s solid defense, Rakhmonov persisted, occasionally breaking free to land punches.
Thompson briefly turned the tide with a series of powerful kicks, but Rakhmonov’s relentless pursuit eventually led to a successful takedown.
Rakhmonov trapped Thompson’s arm, alternating between punches and a Rear Naked Choke attempt.
Although Thompson initially escaped the choke, Rakhmonov’s patience and strategic breakdown of Thompson’s defenses eventually led to a second, inescapable Rear Naked Choke, forcing Thompson to tap out at 4:56 in the second round.
Watch the video below:
WITH 7 SECONDS LEFT Shavkat Rakhmonov is your Champion to become 18-0!!!
#ufc #UFC #UFC296 #UFC296live #ufc4 #fight #maincard #main #men #mainevent #fightofthenight #ringwalks #Welterweight #ShavkatRakhmonov #StephenThompson pic.twitter.com/2ElXaNYrmO— Combat Sports!! (@xavair_m) December 17, 2023
Following the victory, Rakhmonov shared that he is ready for a title shot:
Stephen Thompson is a very tough opponent. I’m happy I was able to finish him and I believe I’m worthy of a title shot.
I believe the winner of the title fight [at UFC 296], I’m ready to fight him.
