Ian Garry has stated that Islam Makhachev declined an official offer to fight him in May at UFC 328. Garry also says the UFC explored a high-profile Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria matchup to be held at the White House, but that Makhachev turned that option down as well.
Ian Garry is claiming that lightweight champion Islam Makhachev turned down a formal UFC offer to face him at UFC 328 in May, while also alleging that a second, more unusual option — a Makhachev versus Ilia Topuria bout staged at the White House — was similarly declined by the Russian champion.
Because Garry has made these assertions publicly without official UFC confirmation, the claims should be treated as unverified at this stage.
Makhachev, 34, represents one of the most dominant forces in mixed martial arts. The Russian southpaw carries a 28-1-0 record and currently holds the welterweight championship, having previously reigned at lightweight. He lands 2.63 significant strikes per minute at a remarkable 58 percent accuracy and threatens with 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes, underlining the all-around danger he poses to any opponent.
Topuria, the fighter Garry claims was also offered a Makhachev matchup, is ranked second in the lightweight division and sits atop the pound-for-pound rankings at just 29 years old. The Spain-based Georgian carries a 17-1-0 record and is among the most aggressive finishers in the sport, generating 4.81 significant strikes per minute. A matchup between Topuria and Makhachev would represent a collision between the division's two most prominent names.
Why it matters
- If accurate, Makhachev declining multiple fight offers raises questions about his next move at lightweight or welterweight.
- A potential Makhachev vs. Topuria fight would be a landmark event given Topuria's status as the number-one pound-for-pound fighter.
- Garry inserting himself into the conversation signals his intent to push for a high-profile lightweight or cross-divisional opportunity.
