President of Kazakhstan expressed condolences to UFC fighter Shavkat Rakhmonov

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Tengrinews.kz — Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has expressed his deep condolences to the renowned Kazakhstani mixed martial artist Shavkat Rakhmonov on the passing of his father, Baktybay Alpamyssov, according to the official press service.

"Baktybay Rakhmonuly was a respected man who lived a life of dignity. As a true patriot, he raised a strong and courageous son like you, who has enhanced the country’s prestige and become the pride of our entire nation," the telegram of condolence stated.

Reports of the elder Rakhmonov’s passing emerged on images August 9 — several Kazakhstani media outlets reported that a memorial service for Baktybay Rakhmonuly Alpamyssov was scheduled for Thursday in Karaganda. Information regarding his death also began appearing in international publications.

It was revealed that Shavkat lost his father as early as August 2; he passed away at the age of 65. The fighter himself has not posted any information regarding his father's death on social media.

Rakhmonov last stepped into the octagon on December 8, 2024. At the UFC 310 tournament, he defeated Ireland’s Ian Garry by unanimous decision.

Since then, the Kazakhstani athlete has been plagued by injuries that have prevented him from resuming his career. According to the latest reports, Rakhmonov intends to have his next UFC fight in early 2027.

In March of this year, Shavkat’s wife, Gulayim Rakhmonova, was sentenced to five years in prison following a fatal road accident in the Zhambyl region. The sentence has been suspended for five years because she is raising a young child.