Ian Garry Fires Subtle Shot at Islam Makhachev as Welterweight Title Race Intensifies
The UFC welterweight division is stacked with some of the biggest names on the roster and is currently ruled by Islam Makhachev. It has been a few months since the Dagestani star defeated Jack Della Maddalena to capture the welterweight crown and assert his dominance.
Fans around the world are now eagerly waiting for his return to the Octagon, anticipating another high-level performance. Meanwhile, top contenders such as Ian Garry and Michael Morales are positioning themselves carefully for a potential title opportunity.
The Irish contender appears to be leading the race, confidently calling for a showdown with the dominant champion. Recently, Garry made a bold post on X, slyly aiming for the reigning champion Islam Makhachev.
“I’m ready. [Islam] needs more time. Imagine being the #1 pound-for-pound fighter on the planet and needing MORE time,” wrote Ian Garry via Instagram.
Can I write this
Following that, Islam Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, responded by mentioning that UFC is planning something big with Makhachev. He also pointed out that the announcement has nothing to do with Garry; however, the Irishman doesn’t believe it.
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Michael Page gives his opinion on Ian Garry vs. Islam Makhachev
Ian Garry was recently seen training in Georgia with wrestlers in order to get ready for Makhachev’s fighting style. The Irishman has a good relationship with the lightweight champion Ilia Topuria and plans to train with him before the potential Makhachev fight.
Makhachev is well known for his ability to dominate others on the ground, and many believe Garry will meet the same fate. In a recent interview, UFC veteran Michael Page shared his expert opinion on this potential title fight.
“Striking-wise, I don’t believe Islam’s going to be able to deal with Ian, but it’s the grappling element. I think Islam needs to get him down once. Ian is a great striker but not necessarily a great finisher; he goes the distance. Going the distance means you’re in there long enough for this person to take you down once, and it only has to be once. Islam is just something special,” Michael Page via Sky Sports.
Against Jack Della Maddalena, Makhachev used his wrestling to keep the former champion on the mat for five rounds. Despite having great takedown defence, JDM failed to survive Makhachev’s wrestling. It would be interesting to see whether Makhachev’s reign can be halted by Garry next.
READ MORE: Khamzat Chimaev Targets Colby Covington in Wrestling Match While Awaiting Former Champion
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