Makhachev celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Javier Mendez shared details about Islam Makhachev 's preparation for his fight against Ian Garry at UFC 330 , scheduled for August 15th in Philadelphia. The longtime coach of Khabib Nurmagomedov stated that the welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg) doesn't necessarily need to engage in grappling to overcome the Irishman.
In an interview with the YouTube channel 'WEIGHING IN', available this Thursday (6), the coach of the American Kickboxing Academy highlighted that the team's plan depends on Garry's adaptation during the fight. In addition to making it clear that the duel could take different paths inside the octagon.
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"Islam doesn't need to oust Ian, it's probably the best option, but let's see how Ian adapts to what we're going to do," said Javier Mendez.
Known for his dominance in grappling, Islam Makhachev arrives for his first welterweight title defense after winning the division's title. On the other side, Ian Garry attempts to become UFC champion for the first time and relies on his reach, movement, and long-range game to overcome the Russian.
Before the fight, Mendez had already praised the Irishman's qualities, especially in stand-up fighting, but emphasized his confidence in Makhachev's ability to control the pace of the fight. Now, the coach indicates that the champion may present a different plan from the traditional takedown and ground pressure game that has marked his career.
Russia vs. Ireland reignites historic rivalry in the UFC.
Khabib Nurmagomedov (left) faces Conor McGregor (right). Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC.
UFC 330 will feature a main event: the welterweight title fight between Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry . Beyond the title bout, the fight also revives a rivalry that marked one of the most emblematic periods in the organization's recent history: Russia versus Ireland.
A disciple of Khabib Nurmagomedov and the leading representative of the Dagestani fighting school today, Makhachev carries on the legacy left by the former undefeated lightweight champion. On the other side, Garry emerges as the main Irish star of the new generation and seeks to repeat the prominence that Conor McGregor brought to the country during his meteoric rise in the event.
Although lacking the personal rivalry that marked the historic confrontation between Khabib and McGregor, the duel puts Russia and Ireland back in the spotlight of the UFC. This time, in addition to national pride, the welterweight title and a prominent position at the highest level of the sport will be at stake.
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