The UFC has evolved far beyond its past reputation as a brutal sport defined by blood, animosity, and rivalry. With the rise of social media, fans now have a window into the true camaraderie shared by fighters. A perfect example of this is the relationship between former rivals Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya. Earlier this month, the two were spotted sitting together at UFC 312 in Sydney, enjoying the event side by side. In a moment that surprised many, Pereira extended an invitation to Adesanya, saying, “let’s make this partnership happen,” suggesting the possibility of training together.

Such displays of mutual respect among fighters aren’t new. Long before ‘Poatan’ and Izzy’s friendly interaction, middleweight contender Brendan Allen and undefeated welterweight Shavkat Rakhmonov had already showcased a unique bond. Despite never training at the same gym, their friendship has been evident for years. In 2022, ‘Nomad’ gifted ‘All In’ a traditional Kazakh hat, a gesture rich in cultural significance. Interestingly, since receiving that hat, Allen has remained invincible.

Is there something mystical about Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Kazakh hat? That’s a question open for debate. But if you’re curious about its name and the materials used to craft it, let’s take a closer look.

What is Brendan Allen’s hat called?

In Feb 2022, Brendan Allen and Shavkat Rakhmonov shared the spotlight on the same UFC Fight Night card, which took place on February 5, 2022, with the headlining matchup being Hermansson vs. Strickland. During the event, the American faced Chris Curtis but was defeated, while the Kazakh standout made quick work of Carlston Harris, knocking him out in the opening round.

After the fights, Allen, impressed by Rakhmonov’s performance, immediately asked for the Kazakh hat that Shavkat was wearing. Although ‘Nomad’ declined, he promised to bring ‘All In’ a new one next time. True to his word, Shavkat fulfilled his promise a few months later, around June 2022. Since receiving the hat, Allen has been on a solid 6-1 run in his career.

Kazakhstan’s chilly climate is the reason behind the traditional hats designed to keep the head warm. Among these, the ‘Tymak’ is a distinctive hat that Shavkat Rakhmonov wears and is eventually gifted to Brendan Allen. The ‘Tymak’ bears a close resemblance to the ‘Malakhai,’ another traditional Kazakh hat. However, people in Kazakhstan typically wear the traditional headgear, made from fox or wolf fur with flaps for the ear and back to protect those parts from the cold. This style is common among nomads and horse riders in Kazakhstan. On the other hand, the ‘Malakhai’ is larger than the tymak and is more commonly worn across Central Asia and Russia, now more associated with the Russian and Siberian regions.

Shavkat Rakhmonov explains the significance of the Kazakh hat in his career

What does it feel like to be the sole representative of your country in the world’s premier MMA promotion, the UFC? Dricus Du Plessis apart, only Shavkat Rakhmonov can truly answer that. By breaking the mold and making a name for both himself and his homeland, Kazakhstan—known not only for producing fierce fighters but also for its rich cultural heritage—’Nomad’ has embraced his roots with pride. On the global stage, he consistently showcases his heritage, often wearing a hat made from wolf fur as a symbol of his pride.

Whether at weigh-ins or in interviews, Shavkat wears his traditional headgear like a crown. In a candid interview with Ariel Helwani, Shavkat shared what the ‘Tymak’ represents to him: “It’s a traditional Kazakh headdress that our ancestors wore during the winter to keep warm. For me, it’s a very beautiful piece, and wearing it allows me to represent my roots, culture, and tradition. Traditionally, it’s made from wolf or fox skin.”

Now, all eyes are on Brendan Allen, who, despite wearing the Kazakh hat, came up short against Nassourdine Imavov. However, it’s time for him to bounce back this weekend as he faces Anthony Hernandez at UFC Fight Night 252. The event will be held at the Climate Pledge Arena, marking the UFC’s fourth visit to Seattle since July 2013. Do you think ‘All In’ can rebound from his last defeat? Drop your thoughts below.