Makhachev Defends UFC Welterweight Title Against Garry, Extends Win Streak to 17

Islam Makhachev retained his UFC welterweight championship, overcoming a tough challenge from Ian Machado Garry in a tightly contested five-round bout at UFC 330 in Philadelphia. The Russian champion secured a unanimous decision victory, extending his own UFC record to 17 consecutive wins.

Garry, the first Irish fighter to challenge for a UFC title, proved to be a formidable opponent. Despite a significant disadvantage in height and reach, Makhachev initiated his dominant grappling strategy early, securing a single-leg takedown in the first round. Although Garry managed to return to his feet without sustaining damage, the wrestling exchanges continued throughout the fight.

In the second round, Makhachev landed a high kick that momentarily stunned Garry, leading to another takedown. Garry survived the round on his back, demonstrating resilience. The tide appeared to shift briefly in the third round as Garry found his range, landing effective strikes to Makhachev's body and legs while defending takedowns.

However, Makhachev reverted to his smothering grappling style in the fourth round to regain control. In the final round, Garry pushed hard for a finish, but Makhachev managed the distance and secured the victory on all three judges' scorecards. "Ian is a great fighter, a good man, and I just respect him. He gave me a hard time, but I still prove (myself) every fight. Thank you for this match," Makhachev stated after the fight.

In the co-main event, Mackenzie Dern successfully defended her women's strawweight title, defeating Gillian Robertson by decision.

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Ian is a great fighter, a good man, and I just respect him. He gave me a hard time, but I still prove (myself) every fight. Thank you for this match.