“He needs more time”- Ian Machado Garry takes a sly dig at Islam Makhachev as fight for the Welterweight Title heats up

Ian Machado Garry has stirred fresh debate in the UFC welterweight division by suggesting that champion Islam Makhachev is not ready to face him. The Irish contender, currently ranked No. 2 at 170 pounds, has been preparing for a possible title shot since defeating Belal Muhammad in Qatar last year. Garry believes he has done everything required to earn his opportunity and is growing impatient as he waits for confirmation about the champion’s return.

Makhachev is expected to defend his welterweight belt for the first time after Ramadan. According to Khabib Nurmagomedov, the champion could return between May and July. However, Garry appears unwilling to wait quietly. At the same time, undefeated contender Michael Morales also entered the conversation after publicly calling out Makhachev during the UFC Mexico City broadcast, adding more tension to the title race.

Ian Machado Garry questions welterweight champion Islam Makhachev’s readiness to fight

Ian Machado Garry recently traveled to Gori, Georgia, to sharpen his wrestling skills. The move was strategic. Gori is known for its strong wrestling culture, and Garry wants to be fully prepared for a fight against a champion with elite grappling. He shared a post-training photo from Georgia and made it clear that he feels ready for a title bout.

In his recent Instagram post, Garry suggested that while he is fully prepared to compete, the champion may still require additional time before stepping into the Octagon. He pointed out that it is surprising for someone considered the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world to need extra time before defending the belt. By tagging Makhachev directly, Garry ensured his comments would reach the champion.

Meanwhile, Michael Morales added his name to the list of potential challengers. During the UFC Mexico city broadcast, cameras focused on Morales in the crowd. He seized the moment by pulling out his phone and displaying a picture of Makhachev, clearly signaling his intention to challenge for the title.

With Kamaru Usman reportedly out of the title race and Jack Della Maddalena set to fight Carlos Prates at UFC Perth on May 2, the path appears clearer. Makhachev’s next defense could come against either Garry or Morales. The coming months will likely determine who gets the shot at the UFC welterweight title.





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