Ian Machado Garry claims UFC welterweight title shot against Islam Makhachev is next

Ian Machado Garry has teased an upcoming UFC welterweight title fight against Islam Makhachev, criticizing the champion for needing more time to prepare.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 3, 2026, 7:27 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from MMA Fighting

A New Challenger Emerges at 170 Pounds

The landscape of the UFC welterweight division appears to have a clear frontrunner for 2026. Following Islam Makhachev's dominant decision victory over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 last November, speculation has mounted over who would be first to challenge the new two-division champion. While Michael Morales was considered a strong candidate, Ian Machado Garry has taken to Instagram to declare himself the chosen opponent, signaling that the "two-horse race" may effectively be over.

Garry Criticizes Makhachev’s Preparation Time

In a pointed social media post, Machado Garry expressed frustration with the current timeline of the negotiations. "I’m ready. He needs more time," Garry wrote, questioning why the world’s top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter would require an extended layoff before his first defense at welterweight. The 28-year-old Irish standout has been vocal about his desire to stay active and capitalize on the momentum gained from his recent victories over elite competition.

The Road to the Title Shot

Machado Garry currently holds a 10-1 record within the UFC. His only career blemish came in a short-notice, highly competitive clash against Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 in December 2024. Since that loss, "The Future" has rebuilt his standing with consecutive unanimous decision wins over the dangerous Carlos Prates and former champion Belal Muhammad. These performances have solidified his ranking and, according to Garry, earned him the right to challenge for the gold.