Negotiations underway for Islam Makhachev vs Ian Garry title defense

Negotiations are reportedly underway for a cross-divisional super fight between lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and welterweight contender Ian Garry, according to journalist Alvaro Colmenero. The proposed bout is tentatively targeted for UFC 330 in Philadelphia, with an international fight week date in July serving as a potential alternative. No official announcement has been made, and the matchup remains unconfirmed.

Makhachev, 34, carries a 28-1 record and holds the pound-for-pound top ranking. The Russian southpaw, who trains out of Eagles MMA, stands five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach. He is one of the sport's most complete fighters, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and landing strikes at a 58 percent accuracy rate — among the highest figures in the game.

Ian Garry's verified data was not available in the fighter database, so detailed statistics for the Irish welterweight cannot be confirmed at this time.

Also notable is the removal of Michael Morales from contention as Makhachev's next opponent. The undefeated Ecuadorian, ranked second in the welterweight division at 19-0, had been linked to the champion before being definitively ruled out. At 27, Morales remains one of the division's most dangerous prospects, averaging 5.62 significant strikes per minute.

Why it matters

• Makhachev moving up to welterweight would mark a rare champion-versus-contender cross-divisional title defense
• A win at 170 pounds could further cement his pound-for-pound standing
• Morales being removed from the equation reshapes the welterweight title picture heading into mid-2026