Islam Makhachev is expected to make his first welterweight title defense against a familiar contender in the near future. After defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 to become the promotion’s eleventh two-division champion, several fighters have expressed interest in challenging him for the belt. Notably, Kamaru Usman has asserted that his legacy justifies a title shot, while both Michael Morales and Ian Machado Garry have gained momentum from notable performances late last year.
Reports recently suggested that an Irish champion is the leading candidate to face Makhachev in 2026, setting up a recurring rivalry between Ireland and Dagestan. Despite this, Makhachev does not anticipate the rivalry with Garry will escalate to the intensity of past feuds within the UFC.
Comparison Between Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov’s UFC Journey
Fans and analysts continue to compare Islam Makhachev’s run in the UFC with that of his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov. While Makhachev is undefeated and a two-division champion, the debate remains over whose career holds greater historical significance. Discussions this topic encourage fans to share their opinions on Makhachev’s achievements versus those of Khabib.
Makhachev Rejects Comparisons of His Rivalry With Garry to the McGregor-Nurmagomedov Feud
Makhachev’s potential bout against Ian Machado Garry recalls memories of the infamous rivalry between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor, which unfolded a decade ago. That confrontation was marked by intense animosity, controversial exchanges, and a post-fight brawl after Khabib’s submission win at UFC 229 in Las Vegas. When asked in an interview with Ushatayka whether his upcoming fight with Garry could reignite the Irish-Dagestani rivalry, Makhachev responded with humor rather than hostility, indicating fans should not expect the same level of bitterness or dramatic incidents.
“Would you call the Ian Garry fight round two of the Irish vs Dagestani rivalry?”
“Like they say, ‘From AliExpress,’ right?”
– Islam Makhachev, UFC Welterweight Champion
Why Ian Machado Garry Is a More Appropriate Next Opponent Than Kamaru Usman
Though Makhachev has expressed a preference for facing Kamaru Usman, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest welterweights in UFC history, rumors highlight Ian Machado Garry as the frontrunner for the next title shot. Usman has experienced a decline in recent years, with only one victory since 2021 and several losses, despite his past dominance and near-GOAT status alongside Georges St-Pierre in the welterweight division. This contrast supports the argument that choosing Garry, who has shown strong, recent performances, is a more fitting challenge for Makhachev’s reign.
As Usman struggles to maintain momentum, Garry’s rise suggests a fresh, competitive contender is emerging to challenge Makhachev’s hold on the welterweight belt, signaling a new chapter in UFC’s evolving landscape.
Implications for the UFC Welterweight Division and What Lies Ahead
The potential matchup between Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry carries significance beyond title defense; it reflects a shifting dynamic in UFC’s welterweight division. Makhachev’s stance minimizes the likelihood of a personal feud resembling Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legendary rivalry, which means fans may expect a contest rooted more in competition than confrontation. Meanwhile, the move to prioritize in-form challengers like Garry indicates the UFC’s intention to cultivate fresh narratives and rivalries rather than rely solely on established names.
This approach could reshape how title contenders are chosen in the future, placing greater emphasis on recent performance and momentum over legacy alone in the sport’s climate.
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