UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping has suggested that Ian Garry could be the next opponent for Islam Makhachev following Makhachev’s recent victory at UFC 322. The event, featuring a strong welterweight lineup, saw Makhachev claim the 170lbs title, prompting speculation about his next fight. Bisping outlined why Garry, ranked highly among welterweights, would be a compelling matchup for the current champion.
Bisping Highlights Ian Garry’s Credentials
On his YouTube channel, Bisping discussed Garry’s rise and recent performances. He pointed to Garry’s impressive win over Shavkat Rakhmonov—a number one contender clash that lasted five intense rounds and nearly ended with a submission in the final round. Additionally, Garry secured victories over former champion Belal Muhammad and Carlos Prates, an emerging star in the welterweight division. Bisping remarked,
“Hear me out, Ian Garry is the No. 1-ranked guy on the planet, and he’s beaten some tremendous fighters along the way. And of course, he took Shavkat Rakhmonov in a No. 1 contender matchup, took him five rounds, almost got the submission in the fifth round, and since then, he’s come back, and the man’s still fighting. Last time out, he took out Belal Muhammad, who is the former champion. Before that, he took out Carlos Prates, one of the biggest and hottest names right now in the welterweight division.”
– Michael Bisping, UFC Hall of Famer
Bisping also noted Garry’s recent social media activity, revealing the fighter has begun preparing for his next camp but has yet to announce an opponent. Bisping emphasized the expectation for Garry’s upcoming fight to be against a top-tier contender, explaining,
“it’s going to be someone good, it’s got to be someone highly ranked, he is one of the top welterweights on the roster.”
– Michael Bisping, UFC Hall of Famer
Other Potential Challengers for Islam Makhachev
While Garry vs. Makhachev offers an exciting narrative that could rekindle the Ireland–Russia rivalry in mixed martial arts, other contenders also remain in the conversation for Makhachev’s next bout. Kamaru Usman, a seven-ranked welterweight and former champion known as the Nigerian Nightmare, has been vocal about his desire for a title shot. His recent performances have caught UFC’s attention, and he remains a strong candidate despite being ranked lower than some fighters.
Another possible challenger is Carlos Prates, a Brazilian fighter currently on a two-fight knockout streak, having stopped Geoff Neal and most recently defeated former champion Leon Edwards. A notable factor working against Prates is his prior loss to Ian Garry in April last year, which could influence matchmaking decisions.
Michael Morales represents a younger option in Makhachev’s division, carrying an undefeated 19-0 record with 15 finishes to his name. Morales has impressed with three consecutive ‘performance of the night’ bonuses and is regarded as one of the most thrilling welterweight prospects. His rising profile suggests he could soon challenge for the title.
Anticipation Builds Around Makhachev’s Next Move
Fans and analysts alike await confirmation of Islam Makhachev’s upcoming opponent, with the potential matchups stirring considerable interest. Ian Garry, Kamaru Usman, Carlos Prates, and Michael Morales all offer different dynamics and storylines that could impact the lightweight division’s landscape. The next fight will likely shape the future rivalries and title defenses within the UFC’s welterweight category.
As Makhachev continues to establish himself as the number one pound-for-pound fighter, the choice of his next challengers will test his dominance and influence the direction of the division. UFC enthusiasts remain eager to see which contender rises to meet him in the Octagon next.
