McGregor vs. Khabib 2? Ian Garry clings to historic rivalry to lure Makhachev into a UFC fight.

Garry promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/IanGarry

This Saturday (22), Ian Gary faces the former champion Belal Muhammad | No. UFC QatarIn a crucial welterweight bout (up to 77,1 kg), and brimming with confidence, he's already thinking ahead. If he wins the biggest fight of his career, the Irishman will be close to challenging for the title, and he's already projecting that. Islam makhachev, the new leader of the category, as his opponent.

It's true that the welterweight division is experiencing a unique moment, with several high-level athletes in a position to challenge the feared fighter. However, Garry has a trump card. 'The Future' plans to use the rivalry between Ireland and Russia in MMA to convince champion Makhachev to face him. In any case, the Irishman stressed that he will not resort to the hostile 'trash talk' made by Conor McGregor against Khabib Nurmagomedov.

See too

Biggest winner? Ian Garry praises Conor McGregor, but vows to surpass his compatriot in the UFC.

Does it make sense? Jon Jones explains his refusal of a $160 million offer to fight Tom Aspinall in the UFC.

Breaking news! Kickboxing legend relinquishes GLORY heavyweight title after 12 years of dominance.

“I know our countries have a history in the world of fighting. I know we had McGregor and Hughes with Khabib and Usman. Makhachev and I have no rivalry, but our countries have a history of fighting. So, for me, it would be a moment of great pride to bring this victory to my country and take the belt from him. Makhachev, get ready. See you soon. Wherever and whenever you want, I'm next,” said the athlete at the 'media day' of UFC Qatar.

Ireland suffers heavy defeat against Russia.

Over the years, the Ireland-Russia rivalry in MMA has yielded three major clashes. In 2018, at the UFC, Conor McGregor e Khabib Nurmagomedov They delivered one of the biggest and most intense fights in the history of the sport. After suffering many attacks before the fight, 'The Eagle' finished 'Notorious' in the fourth round.

At PFL, Paul Hughes, Irish sensation, and Usman NurmagomedovKhabib's cousin and Russian fighter Robertson have made headlines in two intense fights. Last season and this season, the Russian defeated the Irishman by majority and unanimous decision, respectively, maintaining his undefeated record. Therefore, Russia has a 3-0 lead over Ireland in terms of great MMA fights.