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Islam Makhachev believes Ian Machado Garry could’ve toned down all the hugging during the UFC 330 main event.

Makhachev put the welterweight title at stake against Garry this past Saturday in Philadelphia. Makhachev held Garry up against the fence throughout the opening frame before dropping the challenger with a head kick during the second stanza. Garry had his strongest showing in the third round, but Makhachev regained control in rounds four and five with his grappling to secure the unanimous decision victory.

Garry often had moments where he showed respect for the 170-pound champion, daping him up and even hugging the surefire future UFC Hall of Famer. During the UFC 330 post-fight press conference, Makhachev admitted he felt the gestures were a bit over the top (via MMAFighting).

“Honestly, I don’t understand,” Makhachev said. “This is a fight. This is not something we have to hug each other every round. We’re going to war. We’re going to break the face, to break the eye. I respect all my opponents. But [maybe he’s young]. He respects too much. “I respect him. He’s a good guy. Very kind. But this is a war. Look at my face. I just come to beat everything. It’s not something you have to play. This is a fight. This is not a game.”

Garry has said that his goal of becoming a UFC champion remains, and he believes there is plenty of time to fulfill his goal. For now, the Irish star will need to readjust before stepping back inside the Octagon. As for Makhachev, he has two eager contenders waiting for him in Carlos Prates and Michael Morales.

Makhachev will have some time to rest after earning his first successful welterweight title defense, but he plans to return before Ramadan. That would mean his next fight would be in January 2027 at the latest.

Did you find Ian Machado Garry’s show of respect to be overbearing during the UFC 330 main event? Let us know what you thought in the comments below.

This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM