Islam Makhachev’s Next Opponent: Is Ian Garry a Viable Contender?

The world of UFC is buzzing with speculation about Islam Makhachev’s next title defense. While Ian Garry has publicly expressed his desire to challenge Makhachev and ascend to the top of the pound-for-pound rankings, his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, believes “The Future” lacks the star power to headline a major UFC event – and therefore, isn’t ready for a title shot.

Abdelaziz’s Blunt Assessment of Ian Garry

According to Abdelaziz, a high-ranking UFC official shared his concerns about Garry’s fighting style. “I asked one guy very high up in the UFC,” Abdelaziz revealed to MMA Junkie. “I’m not going to say who, but I had to ask him if he thinks Ian Garry, coming from nine out of 10 fights by decision, is he an exciting fighter? He’s like, ‘No, he’s boring.’ He’s not the guy people think he is.”

This assessment directly impacts Garry’s chances of securing a main event slot, particularly in lucrative markets like Qatar. Abdelaziz pointed out that Garry wasn’t considered a strong enough draw to headline the event in Qatar, where Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker were ultimately chosen.

A Different Plan for Makhachev?

Despite consistently advocating for a rematch between Makhachev and former champion Kamaru Usman, Abdelaziz acknowledges the UFC may have alternative plans for his client. Makhachev is expected to defend his welterweight title in either May or June of this year. The question remains: who will be standing across the octagon?

Garry’s Recent Performances Under Scrutiny

Abdelaziz further questioned Garry’s recent performances, highlighting his close fights against Shavkat Rakhmonov and Carlos Prates. “It’s not like a guy who’s going to sell out an arena or something like that,” he stated. “If he’s going to sell out the arena, why don’t you make him and Belal (Muhammad) the main event in Qatar?”

The manager’s logic, while pointed, underscores the UFC’s business considerations. A champion’s opponent needs to be not only a skilled fighter but also a draw for fans, capable of generating significant pay-per-view revenue.

The Future of Makhachev’s Title Reign

The debate surrounding Makhachev’s next opponent highlights the complexities of matchmaking in the UFC. While Garry is a rising star, Abdelaziz’s comments suggest the UFC is prioritizing fighters who can consistently deliver exciting performances and attract a large audience. As Makhachev prepares for his next defense, the question of who will challenge him remains a central talking point in the MMA world.

For more information on Islam Makhachev and the UFC, visit the official UFC website.