Overview
- Ian Machado Garry traveled to Tbilisi to train with Georgian wrestlers as speculation grows that he could challenge for Makhachev’s 170-pound title, though no fight has been announced.
- Makhachev told Ushatayka that brief pre-fight wrestling camps have “zero effect,” mocked Garry as an “AliExpress McGregor,” and pointed to past opponents who tried similar tactics.
- The champion said he has not held specific negotiations to face Garry and indicated a Topuria matchup is unlikely for the White House card, with his return timeframe discussed for June but still unconfirmed.
- Michael ‘Venom’ Page praised Garry’s ring IQ, length, and takedown defense yet predicted Makhachev would ground him and find at least one submission opportunity in a five-round fight.
- Coach Javier Mendez warned Garry would be outmatched on the mat despite his striking threat, as other names such as Michael Morales, Kamaru Usman, and Carlos Prates remain in the title mix.