Islam Makhachev Reveals Which Round He Plans to Beat Ian Garry

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev made a bold statement ahead of his first title defense against Ian Machado Garry. The Dagestani fighter said he would finish his opponent within three rounds and stressed that he has set himself an even bigger goal: becoming one of the greatest athletes in UFC history.

This bout will decide more than the championship belt; a historic record is also at stake. Makhachev currently shares the UFC’s longest winning streak with Anderson Silva, at 16 consecutive victories. A win over Garry would make him the sole record holder.

“I am the best fighter in the world”

Makhachev did not hide his confidence ahead of the fight. He said he was not content with his current achievements and wanted to secure a special place in the history of the sport.

“I am the best fighter in the world, but I want to become the greatest fighter in the history of the sport. I need to beat Ian Garry to break Anderson Silva’s record.”

In the champion’s view, the next result will be more than just a 17th victory in the statistics. He plans to extend his streak further and dominate for a long time in a new weight class as well.

Makhachev currently tops the UFC pound-for-pound rankings. His professional record stands at 28 wins and one defeat.

How will Anderson Silva’s record be broken?

Between 2006 and 2012, Anderson Silva won 16 consecutive fights in the UFC. For a long time, that mark stood as the highest in the organization’s history.

Makhachev tied Silva’s record by defeating Jack Della Maddalena in November 2025. In that bout, he also captured the welterweight title and became a UFC champion in two weight classes.

With a victory over Garry:

However, the record alone is not enough for Makhachev. His comments suggest that the champion wants to strengthen his legacy not only through the number of victories but also through title defenses in a new division.

“I will keep him under pressure”

Makhachev also revealed his game plan. He intends to deny Garry the freedom to move, apply constant pressure, control him on the ground and wear him down physically.

“I will keep him under constant pressure, control him, tire him out and finish him. At UFC 330, I will beat Ian Garry within three rounds.”

This plan fits Makhachev’s familiar style: he is highly effective at cutting off opponents, taking them down and controlling them from top position.

Garry, however, stands out for his ability to maintain distance, move quickly on his feet and land counterstrikes. As a result, the main tactical question will be whether Makhachev can close the distance or whether the Irish contender can keep the fight standing.

Garry Is No Ordinary Contender

Ian Machado Garry is ranked No. 1 in the UFC welterweight division. His professional record consists of 17 wins and one defeat. The Irish fighter has finished seven bouts by knockout and one by submission.

Garry has won his last three fights. The UFC has highlighted his victories over Carlos Prates, Michael Page and former champion Belal Muhammad as the main reasons he earned a title opportunity.

Makhachev also described his opponent as a hungry and ambitious representative of the new generation:

“He is hungry for victory and wants to become a UFC champion. But I am superior in every aspect.”

The only defeat of Garry’s career came in a close five-round fight against Shavkat Rakhmonov. Since then, the Irish fighter has returned to winning ways and become the division’s No. 1 contender.

Makhachev’s First Defense

UFC 330 will take place on August 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, United States. Because of the time difference, the main event in Uzbekistan will take place on August 16.

This will be Makhachev’s first defense of the welterweight title since winning the belt.

A Bold Promise Before a Historic Night

Makhachev’s statement that he will beat Garry within three rounds has increased the pressure ahead of the fight. The champion is now expected not only to win but also to deliver on his prediction inside the Octagon.

If he keeps his promise, he will achieve three major accomplishments in one night: defend his belt for the first time, end Garry’s title dream and break Anderson Silva’s historic record.

For Garry, however, this is the biggest opportunity of his career. If he ends Makhachev’s winning streak, he could change the balance of power in the UFC in a single night.

Do you think the fight will really end within three rounds, or will Garry force the champion into a grueling five-round test? Leave your opinion in the comments and share the article with sports fans on Telegram or other social networks!