Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Garry negotiations underway, Morales ruled out

Negotiations are underway for a lightweight title defense between Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry, according to journalist Alvaro Colmenero. The report confirms that Michael Morales will definitively not be Makhachev's next opponent. The bout is tentatively targeted for UFC 330 in Philadelphia, though it could potentially take place during International Fight Week in July instead. This represents a significant step up in competition for Garry, who would be moving up from welterweight to challenge for the lightweight championship. The matchup would pit Makhachev's dominant grappling against Garry's striking and movement.