Rahmonov's coach opened up about the knockouts and analyzed the fight against Gary.
Coach of the Kazakh fighter (19-0) from the American gym Kill Cliff FC, Said Saparov, commented on the victory over Irishman Ian Garry (16-1), as reported by Shavkat Rakhmonov Vesti.kz.
The match concluded with a unanimous decision in favor of Rakhmonov after five rounds. This fight marked the first time the Kazakh fighter went the full distance.
"This victory is very important; those five rounds were crucial before the fight with Belal. I have always been an advocate for fighters to know all their resources and when to step it up in each round. For example, the fight with Jeff Neil was a case in point - he finished the fight, and everyone sighed in relief: 'Finally, another finish.' Records are great, but if you ask me as a coach, I prefer to see fighters go the full distance. At least a few times in their careers, a fighter should go the full distance, even if he is a good knockout artist or finisher," Saparov noted in an interview with "Sport of Schrödinger."
The specialist also commented on the course of the fight and praised the Kazakh for a well-executed bout.
"Specifically regarding this fight - considering all the nuances, overall I think Shavkat fought very well. Let’s not forget that stylistically both fighters operate in a counter manner, as second numbers. Even stylistically, they work very similarly, making it challenging to showcase an exciting fight. If we look specifically at the fight, I can say that I am very pleased in the sense that he went the full five rounds; Shavkat didn’t lose a single round, he outstruck him standing up. There were a few dangerous moments, I won’t argue with that. But now, after five rounds, we can say that those were just a few episodes. Without them, it wouldn’t have been as interesting," said Saparov.
Initially, Rakhmonov's opponent was supposed to be the reigning UFC champion Belal Muhammad (24-3), but he contracted an infection in his leg and was forced to withdraw from the fight.