“Not the biggest”: How Makhachev froze Garry at the final staredown

hosted by the U.S. city of Philadelphia UFC 330 The tension reached its peak ahead of the featured bout of the numbered supercard. Welterweight champion Islam Makhachev and the division’s No. 1 contender Ian Machado Garryexchanged sharp words during their final staredown.

The Irish contender tried to put psychological pressure on the champion, but Makhachev’s calm, brief response clearly revealed his opponent’s nerves.

“The biggest fight of the year!” — “No, not the biggest”

The full exchange between the fighters was recorded during the staredown:

• Ian Garry: “Are you ready? That’s it, it’s over, my friend. Everything is on the line — all your records, yes, everything! Are you ready? Let’s go! This is going to be the biggest fight of the year!”

• Islam Makhachev: “Not the biggest”.

• Ian Garry: “No, it absolutely is! You know that yourself. Maybe it isn’t for you, but it is for me! This is a massive fight for me. Everything you’ve achieved throughout your career is on the line, and all of it is at risk for you!”

Who has the psychological edge?

The exchange showed the mental state in which the two fighters are approaching their championship bout:

• Makhachev’s composure: The champion from Dagestan, experienced in major arenas and title defenses, treats every verbal challenge as routine;

• Garry’s emotions: The undefeated contender is doing everything possible to throw his opponent off balance while feeling the pressure and responsibility ahead of the biggest test of his career.

The answer to which of these words will become reality will come early tomorrow morning in the Philadelphia Octagon.

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