Garry Rejects Usman as a Legitimate Challenger
Ian Machado Garry argues that Kamaru Usman has not earned a chance to fight for the UFC welterweight title. Usman has pushed for a championship bout for weeks and voiced his hopes even before Islam Makhachev claimed victory at UFC 322. He believes his win over Joaquin Buckley restored his momentum. That win ended a streak of three losses. Garry prepares for Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar and feels a victory could move him directly into the title race.
Garry Points to Rankings and Recent Performances
During a media session, Garry outlines why Makhachev should avoid Usman. He asks why the champion should face a fighter who once dominated but no longer performs at his peak. He notes that Usman holds a spot near eighth or ninth in the rankings. He highlights that Usman’s last opponent carried several losses in the UFC. Garry says Makhachev needs young contenders with rising form. He describes Usman as a fighter with worn-down knees and less danger than before.
Garry Demands Fresh Competition for Makhachev
Garry admits Makhachev might welcome a fight with Usman because the matchup offers an easy win. He sees it as a simple first defense at welterweight. He points to the main group of contenders: Shavkat Rakhmonov, Carlos Prates, Michael Morales, and himself. He says they share reach, height, power, and youthful strength. He believes this group presents far more risk than a former champion. For Garry, choosing Usman feels like a safe escape. He calls for challengers with hunger, ambition, and dreams still waiting to be achieved.
