Negotiations are ongoing for a potential fight 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. Makhachev is expected to defend his lightweight title at UFC 330 in Philadelphia, though the bout could alternatively take place during international fight week in July. This would be a significant step up in competition for the undefeated Garry against the reigning lightweight champion.
Negotiations are reportedly underway for a welterweight title fight between champion Islam Makhachev and undefeated contender Ian Garry, according to journalist Alvaro Colmenero. The unconfirmed report indicates the bout is being targeted for UFC 330 in Philadelphia, with international fight week in July serving as an alternative window.
Makhachev, 34, carries a 28-1-0 record and holds the welterweight championship, currently sitting atop the pound-for-pound rankings. The Russian southpaw trains out of Eagles MMA and brings a suffocating all-around game to the cage, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes. His striking accuracy of 58 percent is among the most efficient in the division.
The same report closes the door on Ecuador's Michael Morales as a potential next opponent for Makhachev, confirming definitively that the matchup will not happen. Morales, 27, is ranked second in the welterweight division and entered the conversation as a possible challenger on the back of a perfect 19-0-0 professional record. The orthodox striker out of Entram Gym produces a high output of 5.62 significant strikes per minute, though a title shot will have to wait.
Garry, whose verified data was not included in the current report, would represent a notable stylistic and promotional challenge for the champion if the negotiation reaches a formal agreement.
Why it matters
- Makhachev's next title defense remains unconfirmed, leaving the welterweight division's near-term picture unsettled
- Morales, ranked second at welterweight, is officially removed from contention for this slot despite his undefeated record
- A Garry matchup would be a considerable jump in competition for the Irishman against the pound-for-pound top-ranked champion
- UFC 330 in Philadelphia and international fight week in July are the two windows in play, meaning a formal announcement could come soon
