Ian Machado Garry Vows to Beat Islam Makhachev in Immediate

Ian Machado Garry is already calling for a rematch with the man who just beat him. Less than a month after losing a unanimous decision to welterweight champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 330, the Irish contender insists he would win a second fight.

Would a Rematch with Makhachev Go Differently?

Makhachev defended his title against Garry in the main event of UFC 330 on August 16, 2026, at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. The victory was Makhachev's 17th consecutive UFC win, breaking the all-time record previously held by Anderson Silva. The fight was competitive, but Makhachev's wrestling and a second-round head kick knockdown secured him the decision on scores of 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47.

Garry, however, believes he has the blueprint for victory. Speaking to DAZN, he pinpointed a lack of volume as his key mistake. "I feel like if I fought him right now, I'd beat him," Garry said. "The biggest thing I could've done was a bit more volume, more kicks. I just want to get back in there tomorrow and do it all over again." UFC President Dana White had criticized Garry's aggression during the contest.

With the loss, Garry's record moves to 17-2. Makhachev, now 29-1, is being linked to a title defense against Brazilian knockout artist Carlos Prates, who has back-to-back KO wins over former champions.

What's Next for the Welterweight Division?

The landscape at 170 pounds is shifting after Makhachev's historic win. While Garry eyes a quick return to contention, the champion's immediate future appears to lie elsewhere. Carlos Prates is the frontrunner for the next shot, though Michael Morales is also in the conversation. This leaves Garry in a position where he may need another significant win to work his way back to a title opportunity.

Where Does Garry Stand on the Khabib vs. McGregor Debate?

Away from immediate fight talk, Garry recently offered his perspective on a lasting rivalry within the sport. He publicly disagreed with his fellow Irish star, Conor McGregor, regarding the retirement of former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. While the full context of McGregor's comments isn't detailed in the source, Garry's stance shows he isn't afraid to have an independent opinion, even when it diverges from a national icon.

• Ian Machado Garry believes he would defeat Islam Makhachev in an immediate rematch, citing a need for more volume and kicks.
• Makhachev set the UFC record with his 17th straight win by beating Garry via unanimous decision at UFC 330 on August 16, 2026.
• The next welterweight title shot is likely to go to Carlos Prates, not Garry, following the champion's latest defense.
• Garry holds a 17-2 professional record after the loss to the 29-1 champion.