Outside Source
Garry is considered to be among the frontrunners for the next welterweight title shot against Islam Makhachev. However, Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, recently claimed that the UFC is considering another massive matchup for the champion not involving Garry.
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“This is, I can tell you, the UFC working on a big fight Islam Makhachev and [Ian’s] name is not involved,” Abdelaziz wrote on X. “Much bigger. One of the biggest fight in the UFC right now they can make. Stay tuned.”
This is, I can tell you, the UFC working on a big fight Islam Makhachev and ian name is not involved. Much bigger. One of the biggest fight in the UFC right now they can make. Stay tuned.😉
— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) March 2, 2026
Garry refuted Abdelaziz’s statement.
“No they’re not.”
Many Options
Abdelaziz then slightly changed tune, saying Garry is still in the race, although there are other options for Makhachev.
“The Champ will let you know, there are so many great options, you in the conversation for now,” Abdelaziz wrote.
Garry (17-1) now claims that while he is ready to face Makhachev, the champion needs more time. Garry mocked Makhachev for allegedly biding for time despite being the UFC pound-for-pound king.
“I’m ready… He needs more time,” Garry wrote on Instagram. “Imagine being the number one pound for pound fighter on the planet and needing MORE time.”
While Makhachev (28-1) was originally looking to defend his title against Kamaru Usman, “The Nigerian Nightmare” recently hinted that he is unlikely to get the next title shot. Meanwhile, undefeated contender Michael Morales is also rallying for the next gold bid against Makhachev.
This article first appeared at Recent News on Sherdog.com
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