Ian Machado Garry Calls Out Shavkat Rakhmonov After UFC 303

James Herrick / UFC / June 30, 2024

Ian Machado Garry UFC — In the aftermath of his UFC 303 victory over Michael Page, Ian Machado Garry discussed his desire to fight Shavkat Rakhmonov in the future. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

Ian Machado Garry Calls Out Shavkat Rakhmonov After UFC 303

Ian Machado Garry has his sights set on a welterweight matchup against Shavkat Rakhmonov after his UFC 303 victory. The Irishman is steadily climbing the rankings and a matchup against Rakhmonov could catapult him to a title shot.

Machado Garry expressed his interest in a Rakhmonov bout in his UFC 303 post-fight press conference.

Ian Machado Garry "would love to get [his] hands on" Shavkat Rakhmonov 👀 #UFC303

"I've trained with him. I have nothing but respect for the guy, but I want to be the first guy to take his 0 and I know I can do it." pic.twitter.com/QLrEfU5tCk
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) June 30, 2024

“There’s some big names, some cool matchups,” Machado Garry said. “There’s Shavkat (Rakhmonov), 18-0, undefeated. I would love to get my hands on him. I’ve trained with him. I have nothing but respect for the guy, but I want to be the first guy to take his (zero) and I know that I can do it. I’ve just beaten the fastest guy in the division other than me. When it comes to striking and skill set, I can do it. When it comes to grappling we have seen the growth that I have. I am excited to go out there and prove it against someone like him.”

Rakhmonov did not shy away from the potential matchup. The undefeated contender posted on X discussing the matchup.

Looks like Ian forgot what happened during those training sessions. I don’t mind reminding him in the future. https://t.co/B4a7GesXp4
— Shavkat “Nomad” Rakhmonov (@Rakhmonov1994) June 30, 2024

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A fight between Machado Garry and Rakhmonov would be massive for the landscape of the welterweight division. At this point, the bout has the potential to be in consideration. The next round of matchmaking for the welterweight division comes after Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad fight for the title at UFC 304. The winner of that bout may be asked to defend the title against Rakhmonov. That would leave Machado Garry looking for a new dance partner.

It does seem inevitable that Machado Garry and Rakhmonov will end up fighting one another. The pair are two members of the next generation of welterweights. It helps that both are under 30 years old and have plenty of time on their hands.

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