Representatives of Shavkat Rakhmonov's division were told to "shut up."

The former welterweight champion (20-4) responded to criticism from opponents in the division who are unhappy with his extended absence from the octagon. Usman urged fighters to focus on their performances rather than discussing his career, as reported by UFC Kamaru Usman Vesti.kz.

"To those of you who keep thinking that I'm not fighting because I choose not to, like all these foolish guys, these silly fighters who chatter: 'Oh, he doesn't want to fight me,' - shut up. Nobody is afraid of any of you.

I have been at the top of the division regardless of weight class, with an iron fist that has knocked you all down. So, when I'm healthy, I will be back there.

I want to fight and can't wait to step in the ring with any of you. So, all you silly welterweights, shut up and wait until I'm healthy again. I will fight all of you; I don't care," Usman is quoted by BJ Penn.

Recall that the undefeated Kazakh fighter (19-0) competes in the welterweight division and recently shifted Usman from second to third place in the division after his victory at UFC 310 over (15-1).

Leading in this weight class is another former champion of the division (22-4).