UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev is not losing sleep over reports that rising contender Ian Machado Garry has traveled to Georgia to sharpen his wrestling.
Speaking this week to Russian outlet Ushatayka, Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) addressed rumors that Garry (17-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) could be next in line to challenge for the 170-pound title. The Irish contender’s decision to train in Georgia (a nation renowned for its wrestling pedigree) has fueled speculation that he is attempting to close the grappling gap ahead of a potential title fight.
Makhachev, however, dismissed the move as largely symbolic.
“In Georgia, he’ll probably improve in some areas,” Makhachev said. “I’ve been wrestling my whole life, not just for 2-3 months. So…I don’t care about that anymore.”
The champion emphasized that bringing in elite wrestling coaches or training partners is a common strategy among his opponents, but one that has historically failed to neutralize his grappling dominance.
“Throughout my recent fights, someone brings someone into their camps, they bring in some wrestlers or whatever,” he said. “Oliveira brought in someone from the Iranian national wrestling team…zero effect. So don’t waste your time.”
Makhachev was referencing his submission victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 in 2022, where he captured the UFC lightweight title with a second-round finish. Despite Oliveira’s efforts to bolster his wrestling preparation, Makhachev was able to secure a takedown and ultimately lock in a fight-ending submission.
Now reigning at welterweight, Makhachev appears confident that history will repeat itself if Garry earns the shot. For the Dagestani champion, years of elite-level grappling cannot be replicated in a single training camp, regardless of location.
