TLDR
- Ian Garry has landed in Tbilisi, Georgia, fulfilling his promise to train there if booked against Islam Makhachev
- UFC’s June 14 White House event is confirmed with Topuria vs Gaethje, while Makhachev vs Garry is planned separately
- Garry ranks as the #2 welterweight contender and has earned his title shot through recent victories
- Makhachev plans to return post-Ramadan for his next title defense
- Training in Georgia gives Garry access to wrestling partners who match Makhachev’s fighting style
Sources: MMA Mania | ClutchPoints | SportBible
Ian Garry has arrived in Tbilisi, Georgia, fulfilling a promise he made weeks ago about his next opponent. The Irish welterweight contender’s trip appears to confirm widespread reports that he will challenge Islam Makhachev for the UFC title.
Garry previously stated he would train in Georgia if he received a fight against Makhachev. His arrival in the country strongly suggests the bout is moving forward.
White House Card Adds Context to Matchup
UFC President Dana White confirmed details about a historic June 14 event at the White House. The card will be headlined by Ilia Topuria defending his featherweight title against Justin Gaethje.
Reports indicate Makhachev versus Garry will take place on a separate card. The timing aligns with Makhachev’s expected return to action following Ramadan.
Garry currently ranks as the #2 welterweight contender in the UFC. He has put together an impressive winning streak that positioned him for a title shot.
The 27-year-old fighter from Ireland has been vocal about wanting to face the best competition in the division. His willingness to travel to Georgia for training shows his commitment to preparing for Makhachev’s wrestling-heavy style.
Makhachev’s Title Defense Plans
Islam Makhachev holds the UFC welterweight championship and trains out of Dagestan. His team is based in the region, but he frequently works with fighters in Georgia as well.
The champion has been out of action while observing Ramadan. Reports suggest he plans to return to competition shortly after the religious observance ends.
Makhachev’s fighting style relies heavily on wrestling and grappling skills. Garry’s decision to train in Georgia gives him access to high-level wrestling partners who use similar techniques.
The UFC has not officially announced the Makhachev versus Garry fight. However, multiple sources have reported the matchup is in the works.
Garry posted photos and videos from Tbilisi on social media. The images show him arriving in the Georgian capital and preparing to begin his training camp.
This would be Makhachev’s next title defense after his last successful championship bout. The champion has dominated the welterweight division with his ground game.
Garry brings a different challenge as a striker who has improved his takedown defense. His recent victories demonstrated his ability to stuff wrestling attempts and keep fights standing.
The welterweight division has been waiting for clarity on who would challenge Makhachev next. There was speculation about former champion Kamaru Usman getting a title shot after just one win.
Garry’s case for a title shot is stronger based on his current ranking and winning streak. He has defeated several ranked opponents to earn his position.
Training in Georgia gives Garry access to the same style of fighters Makhachev regularly works with. The experience could prove valuable in preparing for the champion’s approach.
Dana White’s confirmation of the June 14 White House event provides a timeline for when UFC plans to book major fights. Makhachev versus Garry would likely take place around the same period on a different card.
