Ian Garry has sparked controversy by taking credit for Shavkat Rakhmonov’s recent injury setback, fueling debate within the UFC community. The Irish welterweight’s remarks came after Rakhmonov, a top contender sidelined since December 2024, was removed from the UFC welterweight rankings amid prolonged inactivity tied to knee injuries.
Background on Ian Garry and Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Rivalry
Ian Garry has quickly risen as one of the UFC’s most promising welterweights, known for his calm yet confident approach inside the Octagon. His recent comments about Shavkat Rakhmonov’s injury controversy have drawn attention, especially since Rakhmonov is the only fighter to have handed Garry a professional defeat. The two met in a highly anticipated showdown at UFC 310 in Las Vegas in December 2024, where a fiercely competitive five-round bout unfolded.
During that fight, momentum swung repeatedly between them. In the fifth round, Garry nearly secured a rear-naked choke that threatened to end the contest, but Rakhmonov escaped and went on to win by unanimous decision. Since then, Rakhmonov has been sidelined with a knee injury that kept him out of action throughout 2025, with hopes to return in 2026. However, a subsequent setback requiring additional surgery forced a delay, prompting Garry to publicly claim responsibility.
He was eliminated at our title eliminator.
Ian Garry via X
Impact on UFC Welterweight Rankings and Division Dynamics
With Rakhmonov inactive for an extended period, UFC officials removed him from the welterweight rankings to emphasize a roster of active contenders. This decision upset fans who value Rakhmonov’s impressive UFC tenure and status as a fan favorite. Meanwhile, Garry rebuilt his momentum with notable wins over Carlos Prates in April 2025 and former champion Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar in November 2025, bolstering his claim for a title shot.
Garry has since set his sights on a championship bout against Islam Makhachev, the UFC’s reigning pound-for-pound leader, viewing that challenge as key to elevating his global profile. Despite his ambition and recent successes, Garry’s confidence continues to generate polarized opinions, especially considering his record is largely built on decision victories rather than finishes—a factor underscored by his comments regarding Rakhmonov’s injury.
Fan Backlash to Garry’s Comments on Rakhmonov’s Injury
The MMA community responded swiftly to Garry’s remarks, with many fans criticizing him for appearing to celebrate Rakhmonov’s misfortune. Critics argued that since Rakhmonov earned a decisive victory in their fight, claiming responsibility for his injury was disrespectful and poor sportsmanship. Several expressed that Rakhmonov, a recognized title contender, deserved respect rather than public dismissal.
He fought you with no legs and beat you up mate. Not sure that’s something I’d brag about.
— Adlad (@Adisthelad)
Why does Ian act as if he won that fight lol
— MrSassyLegs (@MrSassyLegs)
So like, what was the goal of posting this?
— Grizz🐻 (@GrizzMMA)
Honestly man, don’t be happy about another man’s downfall. In this situation it’s much classier to just stay silent.
— MO1711 (@MihchaelO)
be careful ian karma will find its way to ur life don’t laugh at peoples downfall i think u should be a little classy about it u never know what life could throw your way remember always
— Faris🇸🇦 (@faris1__)
He eliminated your undefeated record
— ohm (@ScissorChoke)
He also “eliminated” your 0 losses. Although, we all know MVP beat him to it, you just got lucky with the judges. Even Dana knows MVP beat you and turned you into a wrestler
— . (@viKINGof420)
Far more hype around seeing Shavkat fight than Ian Garry. Even from English speaking fans.
— Aaron. (@Stuff_by_Aaron)
Context on Rakhmonov’s Career and Garry’s Rise
Before facing Garry, Shavkat Rakhmonov maintained a perfect UFC record, finishing all of his opponents either by submission or knockout. The bout with Garry marked the first time Rakhmonov went the full distance in his UFC career, exposing a vulnerability that some believe fuels Garry’s current confidence. Despite this, many fans see Rakhmonov as an enduring welterweight force who remains a key part of the division’s future if his health permits.
Conversely, Garry’s path since their fight has been marked by notable victories that have positioned him as a strong contender for a title shot. His high-profile wins and vocal pursuit of the championship reflect his desire to establish himself on a global stage, even if his outspoken nature risks alienating parts of the community.
Significance and Future Outlook in the Welterweight Division
The ongoing Shavkat Rakhmonov injury controversy highlights the complex intersection of competition, injuries, and personality within the UFC’s welterweight division. Ian Garry’s claim of credit for Rakhmonov’s injury has intensified debates around sportsmanship and respect among fighters. As younger contenders like Michael Morales and Carlos Prates rise, the division continues evolving rapidly, emphasizing activity and consistent performances.
With Rakhmonov sidelined for now, the welterweight landscape is opening for contenders like Garry to make their case for title opportunities. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Garry can convert his momentum into a championship run and whether Rakhmonov can return to challenge the division’s top fighters once healthy. How these dynamics unfold will shape the UFC welterweight hierarchy in the coming years.
He was eliminated at our title eliminator https://t.co/B2zbSbp9f1
— “The Future” Ian Machado Garry (@iangarryMMA) February 3, 2026
He fought you with no legs and beat you up mate. Not sure that's something I'd brag about.
— Adlad (@Adisthelad) February 3, 2026
Why does Ian act as if he won that fight lol
— MrSassyLegs (@MrSassyLegs) February 3, 2026
So like, what was the goal of posting this?
— Grizz🐻 (@GrizzMMA) February 3, 2026
Honestly man, don't be happy about another man's downfall. In this situation it's much classier to just stay silent.
— MO1711 (@MihchaelO) February 3, 2026
be careful ian karma will find its way to ur life don’t laugh at peoples downfall i think u should be a little classy about it u never know what life could throw your way remember always
— Faris🇸🇦 (@faris1__) February 3, 2026
He eliminated your undefeated record
— ohm (@ScissorChoke) February 3, 2026
He also “eliminated” your 0 losses. Although, we all know MVP beat him to it, you just got lucky with the judges. Even Dana knows MVP beat you and turned you into a wrestler
— . (@viKINGof420) February 3, 2026
Far more hype around seeing Shavkat fight than Ian Garry. Even from English speaking fans.
— Aaron. (@Stuff_by_Aaron) February 3, 2026
