Islam Makhachev analyzes the difference between Ian Garry and his last opponent before UFC 330.

Makhachev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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Islam Makhachev will face an opponent with different characteristics than those he encountered in his welterweight debut (up to 77,1 kg). On the eve of his title defense at UFC 330 , next Saturday (15), in Philadelphia against Ian Garry , the Russian assessed the Irishman's game and explained why he considers the challenger more complete than Jack Della Maddalena.

During the event's Media Day , held this Wednesday (12), the champion highlighted the variety of resources presented by Garry, but also drew attention to some deficiencies in the rival's game. For Makhachev, these gaps could be decisive in the strategy for the duel.

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“JDM is more of a boxer, but I think Ian has more skills. He’s good at striking and has good grappling defense, but he has some weaknesses. He’s not 100% complete, like me. I have some keys to beat him,” said Islam Makhachev.

The assessment reinforces the expectation of a strategic confrontation. Known for his excellence in grappling, Makhachev will face a taller opponent who also possesses the skills to operate in different areas of the fight.

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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