Bekzod Abdurakhmonov ’s journey through the world and through life changed with a single uppercut, so it makes sense he’d close his career while trying to throw a few more. After six years away from MMA competition, Abdurakhmonov (7-0) returns to once against test his hand in the fight world. He reenters the game an even more highly touted prospect than when he stepped away from combat sports, as he returns with an Olympic medal in his possession. Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Abdurakhmonov lives in Watertown, Mass., less than 10 miles west of Boston. He’s lived in the United States since 2007,  and his brother is a longtime Harvard University wrestling coach. Abdurakhmonov volunteers with the team, as well.