Ian Machado Garry calls out Islam Makhachev for August Showdown. [Images via UFC and @iangarryMMA on X]

Khabib Nurmagomedov believes Ian Machado Garry is a “very uncomfortable opponent” for Islam Makhachev

During a recent sit-down with Smol Talk YT, “The Eagle” opined that Ian Machado Garry’s movement, combined with his height and reach advantage over Islam Makhachev, will force the P4P king to chase him and look for takedowns, which won’t be easy. Khabib Nurmagomedov also thinks that Makhachev’s age, as he approaches 35, could be a significant factor. He said:

“Ian is a stylistically very uncomfortable opponent. He moves a lot and strikes from long range. He’s 193 cm tall, over 190 cm, with long arms and long kicks. We’ll have to chase him, close the distance, grab him, tie him up, and take him down. It will be a difficult fight. Islam is almost 35. October 1991. He’ll turn 35. Overall, the stylistic matchup and his age make this a difficult fight.”

Check out Khabib Nurmagomedov’s comments below:

Garry most recently stated that at UFC 330, when the octagon door shuts, he won’t seek an early submission or knockout victory. The Dubliner plans to show his dominance for more than 15 minutes and then go for the final kill in the fourth frame to dethrone the Dagestani wrestling maestro.

Islam Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, on the other hand, believes Garry can be a problem for the P4P king in the striking department, but once he gets taken down, it will be a long night for “The Future.

Makhachev’s welterweight debut against Jack Della Maddalena was enough to prove he can dominate at 170 pounds. Now, his matchup with Garry will be another chance to confirm if he is truly a natural welterweight.

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.