Islam Makhachev Responds to Ian Garry’s Call-Out, Says Shavkat Rakhmonov can’t sit out for a year
Islam Makhachev responds to Garry’s bold callout after big win in Qatar. Islam Makhachev isn’t shutting down the hype around Ian Machado Garry’s latest callout, but he’s keeping it real about who’s next for his welterweight crown.
Fresh off Garry’s impressive decision victory over former champ Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar on Saturday, the 28-year-old Irish phenom grabbed the mic and fired off a passionate plea for a shot at Makhachev. It was Garry’s biggest win yet, a slick, technical masterclass that fell short of his pre-fight knockout promise but solidified his contender status.
Garry’s been on a mission since his only pro loss a razor-close points defeat to Shavkat Rakhmonov in December that snapped his 15-0 streak. Bouncing back with back-to-back decisions over Carlos Prates and now Muhammad, he’s climbed the ranks fast.
Makhachev, the 34-year-old Russian powerhouse who just claimed the welterweight title with a dominant win over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, isn’t rushing to anoint him the top dog.
Speaking to media post-event, Makhachev gave a measured nod: “Yeah, that will be interesting. He’s also a good fighter. He’s on a good winning streak and he’s young. I think it’ll be interesting. We’ll see.”The lightweight-turned-welterweight king wasn’t blown away by Garry’s performance.
“He didn’t surprise me yesterday,” Makhachev added. “If he surprised the UFC, then maybe he will be next.” Garry’s streak is technically just two fights, but the quality of opposition has folks talking.
Still, eyes are on Rakhmonov, the undefeated Kazakh who handed Garry that loss and many see as the rightful No. 1 contender.Makhachev addressed the elephant in the room: Rakhmonov’s been sidelined by injuries for over a year.
A contender can’t sit out for a year with injuries and then come fight for the belt.
Makhachev said plainly. The two crossed paths in Doha. Makhachev cornering teammate Tagir Ulanbekov, while Rakhmonov backed Asu Alimbekov. They even shook hands and exchanged congrats. “If he recovers, and the UFC decides he’s next, why not?” Makhachev shrugged.
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This all comes a week after UFC 322, where Makhachev’s six-month layoff ended in style, outclassing Della Maddalena to snag gold in his second weight class. With Garry pushing hard and Rakhmonov lurking, the division’s heating up. Makhachev’s legacy is already massive, surpassing Khabib in defenses and belts but he’s got options.
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