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ISLAM MAKHACHEV has issued a strong warning to Ian Machado Garry.
Makhachev, 34, is poised to make the first defense of his welterweight title against the Irishman early Sunday morning in the main event of UFC 330 in Philadelphia.
The Dagestani fighter captured the title in November with a commanding win over Jack Della Maddalena at Madison Square Garden.
However, he may encounter a more formidable challenge against the taller and more agile Garry.
Garry earned his title shot just days after Makhachev claimed the championship, putting on an impressive display against former titleholder Belal Muhammad. He aims to become Ireland’s second UFC champion in grand style.
Makhachev is accustomed to hearing bold declarations from his opponents claiming they will be the one to hand him a loss.
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Regardless of any intended humbling, Makhachev acknowledges that Garry will pose significant challenges in their upcoming match.
He remarked, “I respect his skills and his background.
“I’m going to pursue him and attempt to take him down—everyone is aware of my strategy, and it will work again.
“The crowd will support me because no one favors [him].
“We will make him humble, we will make him respectful.”
