Garry was in action last Saturday, sharing the Octagon with former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad. “The Future” earned a unanimous decision victory and is making his case for a title shot.
During the UFC Qatar post-fight press conference, Garry said he believes he should be the No. 1 contender for Makhachev’s gold (via MMA Junkie).
“First of all, I want to say that I have nothing but respect for Islam Makhachev,” Garry said. “This man is the pound-for-pound No. 1 in the world and the champion of my division. However, if you get into my division, and you’re the only thing holding me back that’s standing in the way of me achieving my dreams, I’m going to make sure I punch a hole in your head. Then he has to fight me.”
Makhachev captured the 170-pound title after defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in New York City. The newly minted welterweight champion appears to have no shortage of contenders. Michael Morales recently made a strong case after defeating Sean Brady in the first round.
Makhachev has admitted that his preference is to face Kamaru Usman next. Shavkat Rakhmonov is the most intriguing option for some MMA fans and experts, but he has been plagued by injuries. Garry has made it clear that he thinks he is the most logical candidate.
“There’s no one who’s fought a deeper division, who’s fought guys from top to bottom: D-Rod, Magny, Geoff Neal, ‘MVP’, Shavkat, Prates and now Belal Muhammad, and I haven’t even gotten a title shot yet?” said Machado Garry.
The UFC matchmakers will ultimately come together to decide what will be next in the welterweight title picture in 2026. It’s one of MMA’s most stacked divisions with one of the most dominant champions in the sport’s history at the top.
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