Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, has openly dismissed Ian Machado Garry’s decision to travel to Georgia for wrestling training as part of his preparation for a possible future fight. Although no official bout announcement has been made, Garry has sought to enhance his grappling skills in the region known for producing top-tier wrestlers, aiming to counter Makhachev’s dominant ground game.
Georgia has become recognized for its strong MMA grapplers, with athletes like Merab Dvalishvili and Arman Tsarukyan emerging from the area. Ahead of reports linking Garry and Makhachev as potential opponents, Garry confirmed he would tap into Georgia’s wrestling expertise as part of his game plan to meet the champion’s challenge.
Makhachev Remains Unmoved by Garry’s Training Efforts
In an interview with Ushatayka, Makhachev expressed skepticism about the impact of Garry’s Georgian wrestling camp, emphasizing his lifelong dedication to the discipline.
“In Georgia, he’ll probably improve in some areas,” Makhachev said.
“But I’ve been wrestling my whole life, not just for two to three months. So I don’t care about that anymore. Throughout all my recent fights, someone brings someone into their camps, they bring in some wrestlers or whatever. Oliveira brought in someone from the Iranian national wrestling team.” – Islam Makhachev, UFC Champion
He concluded his thoughts with a blunt dismissal of such training attempts.
“Zero effect. Don’t waste your time.” – Islam Makhachev, UFC Champion
Challenges from Previous Opponents Show Minimal Impact
Makhachev cited examples of past contenders who similarly employed advanced wrestling coaches without changing the fight outcomes. When facing Charles Oliveira, Makhachev noted Oliveira’s team incorporated an elite wrestler from Iran to enhance his ground game, yet Makhachev’s control remained decisive.
Additionally, Jack Della Maddalena made efforts to improve his grappling under expert guidance from Craig Jones before competing at a high level, but despite this preparation, Makhachev maintained confidence in his ability to dominate on the mat. This history leads Makhachev to doubt that Garry’s recent training trip will significantly alter the dynamic should they meet.
Humorous Dismissal of Rivalry and Fight Prospects
Asked if a matchup with Garry might reignite the popular Ireland versus Dagestan narrative, reminiscent of the Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor rivalry, Makhachev responded with humor.
“Like they say: from AliExpress,” he joked. – Islam Makhachev, UFC Champion
At present, no fight date has been confirmed for Makhachev’s next contest, and Garry has yet to be officially announced as his upcoming challenger. Despite the uncertainty, Makhachev’s remarks convey a sense of calm and confidence, seemingly unaffected by Garry’s tactical efforts or training location.
Ian Machado Garry is training in Georgia 👀🇬🇪
🎥 @iangarryMMA pic.twitter.com/wF8lIBkdto
— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) February 18, 2026
