Ilia Topuria stated that Ian Garry has real chances against Islam Makhachev in a potential matchup, citing the fact that Makhachev has been knocked out before in his career. Topuria emphasized that in the fighting business, everyone has a chance, especially someone with Garry's skill set. He noted that Garry has accumulated significant experience throughout his UFC career. Topuria believes Garry possesses many opportunities to be competitive in such a bout. The post suggests that Topuria's assessment is notable given his own standing in the sport.
Ilia Topuria has weighed in on a potential clash between Ian Garry and Islam Makhachev, arguing that the Irish welterweight has a genuine shot in such a matchup — pointing specifically to the fact that Makhachev has been knocked out previously in his career.
Topuria, ranked number one pound-for-pound in the sport at just 29 years old, carries a 17-1 record and competes at lightweight for Spain under the Climent Club banner. Known for his striking output — he lands 4.81 significant strikes per minute — "El Matador" is regarded as one of the most dangerous finishers in the game, which lends weight to his assessment of knockout vulnerability. He emphasized that in combat sports, anyone with the right skill set carries real opportunities, and that Garry's accumulated UFC experience makes him a credible threat.
Islam Makhachev, 34, holds the welterweight championship with a 28-1 record and sits at the top of the pound-for-pound rankings. The Russian fighter out of Eagles MMA is one of the most well-rounded competitors in the sport, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and landing 58 percent of his significant strikes. His lone professional loss, a knockout defeat earlier in his career, is the opening Topuria referenced when assessing Garry's chances.
Why it matters
- Topuria's pound-for-pound standing gives his opinion on divisional threats significant credibility across the MMA community
- Makhachev's single career loss coming by knockout keeps that vulnerability relevant in any stylistic discussion
- Garry's striking-based game, if matched against Makhachev's pressure wrestling, sets up a compelling stylistic contrast
- Any movement toward a Garry title challenge would have immediate implications for the welterweight division's top contender picture
