Islam Makhachev enters UFC 330 with a chance to make history, but his team is not expecting an easy night. According to longtime training partner Usman Nurmagomedov, Ian Machado Garry has the tools to test the reigning UFC welterweight champion when they meet on Aug. 15 in Philadelphia.
A victory would give Makhachev 17 consecutive UFC wins, setting a new record for the longest winning streak in Octagon history.
Nurmagomedov respects Garry’s ability
While confident in Makhachev’s preparation, Nurmagomedov told Mike Bohn that he believes Garry is a legitimate threat and expects a competitive title fight.
“Ian Garry is a tough guy and of course he can do something.”
“But I think Islam going to be prepared for everything. Striking and wrestling.”
Nurmagomedov pointed to Makhachev’s all-around game as the biggest difference heading into the championship bout.
“We know Ian Garry has problems with wrestling and grappling.”
“Islam have very good control on the ground, and very good wrestling to take the guy to the ground. He’s now got good striking.”
“It’s a very good fight. In my opinion it’s a huge fight.”
Makhachev chasing UFC history
Makhachev has already built one of the most dominant runs in UFC history and now stands one win away from surpassing UFC Hall of Famer Anderson Silva’s mark of 16 consecutive Octagon victories.
Nurmagomedov believes the achievement would further cement his teammate’s place among the sport’s all-time greats.
“Yes, in my opinion, Islam is the best fighter in the world right now,”
“What he’s doing, nobody can do.”
“He now breaking the records with Anderson Silva. Can you imagine that brother? If he did, nobody ever going to break this.”
Before cornering Makhachev at UFC 330, Nurmagomedov has his own championship assignment. The undefeated PFL lightweight champion is scheduled to defend his title against Archie Colgan on July 25 at PFL Long Island in New York.