All articles tagged with #islam makhachev
UFC welterweight contenders Shavkat Rakhmonov and Michael Morales are signaling a potential matchup between two undefeated fighters. Rakhmonov posted a TikTok caption referencing a 19-0 vs. 19-0 bout, while Morales recently called out Rakhmonov as a key rival. Both fighters have been inactive due to injuries and scheduling holds, but the division's top contenders are now eyeing each other.
UFC welterweight Ian Garry, who just lost a five-round title bid to Islam Makhachev at UFC 330, says he would beat Makhachev in a rematch right now, citing immense self-belief and his team's preparation, though an immediate title shot is unlikely and he will need to beat other top contenders to earn another crack at the belt. He acknowledged he could have added more volume and kicks in the fight, and at 28 Garry remains a top contender with time on his side.
Brendan Schaub argues Song Yadong's first‑round KO of Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC Shanghai reveals a blueprint for defeating Team Nurmagomedov and predicts Islam Makhachev could be the next challenger, with Michael Morales cited as a potential matchup and the emphasis on exploiting opportunities rather than engaging the wrestlers on the ground.
UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev says he may have three fights left in his career, signaling a possible life after fighting as he contemplates upcoming title challenges and how much more he wants to chase.
Islam Makhachev defended his welterweight title at UFC 330, extending a record-setting winning streak, but said the bout was tougher than anticipated and predicts at least three more challenging fights ahead, with Carlos Prates or Michael Morales likely next in line.
Belal Muhammad agrees with Dana White that Ian Machado Garry lacked killer instinct in his title fight loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 330, criticizing Garry’s apparent 'hugging' and failure to seize momentum in the fifth round despite a close, two-round tie on the cards; Garry earned his title shot by defeating Muhammad earlier at UFC Fight Night 265.
Michael Bisping joined Dana White in criticizing Ian Machado Garry’s UFC 330 tactics, arguing that MMA is about finishing fights and that Garry’s frequent glove-touching and show of respect signal weakness. Garry defended his mindset, while Makhachev’s coach Javier Mendez called the strategy genius for staying composed. The debate continues as Garry eyes another title shot, potentially against Michael Morales, following a backstage altercation.
Ian Machado Garry lost a UFC 330 decision to Islam Makhachev, drawing Dana White's criticism that he lacked killer instinct. Garry’s longtime coach, Javier Mendez, disagrees, saying Garry fought with confidence and relaxed timing that can surprise opponents. Mendez praised Garry's size and technique, and expressed belief that he has the potential to become a UFC champion despite the loss.
Islam Makhachev defeated Ian Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330 to defend his title, extending his win streak and setting a UFC record; while Makhachev credited Volkanovski as the toughest opponent, his coach Javier Mendez argued Garry was the harder test, noting Garry fought tough throughout. With Carlos Prates named as a likely next opponent, Garry’s showing boosts his standing for future bouts.
Max Holloway blasted Islam Makhachev for posing with two UFC belts after UFC 330, suggesting the post was written by someone else and warning, “don’t ever come for my throat,” while noting the display was more about aura than a single title fight and joking about the belts’ weight.
Henry Cejudo criticized Ian Garry's postfight behavior at UFC 330, saying Garry's tendency to hug and hype Islam Makhachev instead of pressing the action showed a lack of killer instinct. With Dana White and Makhachev also commenting, Cejudo doubts Garry will receive another title opportunity soon, arguing UFC shouldn't reward a fighter who prioritizes promotion over aggression.
Henry Cejudo criticized Ian Garry for not maximizing his UFC 330 moment—being overly respectful and focused on family—saying it hurts his title chances, while Islam Makhachev became the first UFC fighter to post 17 straight wins and Cejudo noted the GOAT debate still centers on Jon Jones for now.
Conor McGregor posted a two-word show of support, 'Champion mindset,' for Ian Machado Garry after Garry's title challenge loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 330; the piece notes Garry's defense of his performance and the likely path back toward title contention, including potential next opponents and the ongoing scrutiny surrounding his upswing in the welterweight division.
Ian Garry repeatedly hugged Islam Makhachev across breaks during UFC 330, drawing confusion from Makhachev and sharp criticism from Kenny Florian who called the behavior irritating; Dana White accused Garry of lacking killer instinct, saying a finish would have changed the outcome. Makhachev won by unanimous decision after five rounds, turning the bout into a discussion about fight mentality and psychology.
Islam Makhachev defended his title at UFC 330 and extended his win streak, then fired back at Max Holloway’s jab about his two-belt celebration, joking that carrying both belts is heavy. The piece notes possible future matchups within his camp and mentions Holloway’s path could shift toward a bout with Usman Nurmagomedov rather than a rematch with Makhachev.