The situation around the next title fight involving Islam Makhachev has become unclear in recent weeks. Several fighters are now trying to secure their opportunity. Ian Machado Garry has been the most vocal among them. The Irish fighter is eager to fight for the belt. He believes he has done enough to earn a title shot. At the same time, fans are still talking about a possible super fight between Makhachev and Ilia Topuria.
There have been many conflicting reports about Makhachev’s next opponent. Ilia Topuria was rumored to fight him earlier this year. However, that plan did not happen. Instead, Topuria is now set to defend his belt against Justin Gaethje. UFC president Dana White also gave a different explanation for the situation. This has created confusion. Amid all this, Garry is trying to take advantage and secure a fight with Makhachev.
Ian Garry targets Islam Makhachev as title picture gets complicated
Ian Garry has made it clear that he wants to fight Islam Makhachev next. The Irish welterweight is currently one of the top contenders. Along with Michael Morales, he is being considered for a title opportunity. However, the division is currently facing uncertainty due to changing plans and injuries.
Earlier, there were strong rumors that Ilia Topuria would face Makhachev. That fight was expected to be one of the biggest in recent MMA history. It was even linked to a major event at the White House in June. But the situation changed quickly. Topuria is now scheduled to defend his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje instead.
Topuria had earlier suggested that Makhachev withdrew from their planned fight. However, Makhachev denied that claim. He said he had agreed to the fight. According to him, Topuria asked for a very high payment and stepped away when the deal was not finalized. On the other hand, Dana White said that Makhachev was dealing with a hand injury, which prevented the fight from happening.
Seeing this confusion, Garry has stepped in and demanded clarity. He recently posted on social media, questioning the timeline given by Makhachev and the UFC. He said that while others keep changing dates and reasons, he has been ready to fight for months. He also reminded everyone that he has been waiting since being turned down earlier this year.
Makhachev holds an impressive record of 28 wins and 1 loss. He won his latest fight in dominant fashion against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322. Meanwhile, Garry has also been in strong form. He has won 10 of his 11 UFC fights, with his only defeat coming against Shavkat Rakhmonov. With Rakhmonov currently injured, Garry sees this as the perfect time to step in.
The coming weeks will likely decide Makhachev’s next opponent. For now, Garry is making sure his name stays in the conversation.