Ian Garry Says He Sees ‘Obvious Gaps’ in Islam Makhachev’s Striking
Ian Garry has his eyes firmly on the top of the welterweight division, and with Islam Makhachev now ruling at 170 pounds, the Irish contender is making it clear he believes he has the tools to beat him. After Makhachev vacated the lightweight title and became the UFC welterweight champion at UFC 322, Garry openly discussed the openings he sees in the champion’s striking.
Garry Breaks Down the Holes He Sees in Makhachev’s Stand-Up
Speaking via UFC media, Garry claimed that even though Makhachev has dominated two divisions, his striking still shows exploitable weaknesses.
“There are still holes. If you watch his striking, there are obvious gaps that I’d absolutely take advantage of.”
Garry, who has one professional loss on his record, explained that his intelligence and comfort on the feet give him confidence against southpaw fighters like Makhachev.
“I’m so intelligent, I’m so smart on the feet, I’m undefeated against southpaws.”
Makhachev’s move to welterweight was one of the most impactful moments of 2025. After clearing out lightweight, he vacated the belt and went on to defeat the reigning champion at UFC 322, becoming a two-division titleholder and instantly becoming the man to beat at 170 pounds.
For Garry, a matchup with Makhachev would be the biggest fight of his career. The stylistic contrast is undeniable: Makhachev’s suffocating grappling, chain wrestling and pressure versus Garry’s rangy striking, movement and volume.
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Whether the UFC moves to book the clash remains to be seen, but Garry publicly pinpointing gaps in the champion’s game adds a new layer of intrigue to a division that has been completely reshaped since Makhachev’s arrival.
READ MORE: Kamaru Usman hints at potential matchup against Islam Makhachev for UFC welterweight gold
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