UFC welterweight contenders Ian Machado Garry and former division champion Belal Muhammad seem poised for a potential clash later this year.
Muhammad recently lost the welterweight title to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315. Reflecting on the bout, Garry commented on Muhammad`s tactical approach, specifically noting his decision to primarily engage in striking rather than utilizing his grappling expertise. Garry suggested this strategy was a key factor in Muhammad`s defeat.
Following Muhammad`s loss, Garry issued a direct challenge via social media. He criticized Muhammad`s game plan against Della Maddalena, implying it was driven by ego to stand and trade strikes. Garry declared his own superiority in the striking realm and warned Muhammad emphatically against attempting to `stand and bang` with him should they meet in the Octagon.
Muhammad was quick to acknowledge Garry`s callout. He responded publicly, agreeing to a potential fight and indicating his preferred venue: Madison Square Garden, tweeting, “I’ll see you at MSG.”
This exchange points towards a possible booking at the UFC`s annual event held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, which typically takes place in November. While the UFC has not yet announced its full schedule for the later part of the year, Madison Square Garden is a highly anticipated location. Muhammad had previously been discussed as a potential opponent for Shavkat Rakhmonov, but recent health issues for Rakhmonov may shift the focus towards a matchup with Garry.
Garry is coming off a victory over Carlos Prates earlier this year. Before that win, he suffered his first professional defeat against Shavkat Rakhmonov in December.
Meanwhile, at the top of the welterweight division, newly crowned champion Jack Della Maddalena is expected to face UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, who plans to move up in weight. This potential super fight highlights the depth and excitement in the welterweight ranks.
The UFC`s welterweight division is currently highly competitive, featuring a mix of established veterans and rising talents. The landscape of the division could see significant changes and title shifts in the coming months.
