As the anticipation builds for UFC 310, a compelling welterweight co-main event is capturing the attention of MMA fans: Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Machado Garry. Scheduled for December 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, this match showcases two undefeated fighters—Rakhmonov, with a record of 18-0 and an impressive 100 percent finish rate, takes on Garry, who boasts a perfect 15-0 record. The stakes are high, and MMA enthusiasts eagerly await to see who will emerge victorious.
Despite the excitement surrounding this matchup, not everyone is convinced that it will deliver the fireworks that fans anticipate. Kamaru Usman, a former UFC welterweight champion, has expressed some skepticism. On his “Pound 4 Pound” podcast alongside Henry Cejudo, Usman noted that Garry has a tendency to control the pace of fights, often relying on his footwork to create distance rather than engaging in brawls. This style, while effective, may not yield the explosive action that spectators look for in a co-main event.
Usman elaborated, drawing parallels to previous fights where high hopes fizzled out. He mentioned the Michael ‘Venom’ Page matchup as an example, highlighting that Garry’s fighting style could lead to a repetitive pattern of evasion rather than engagement. The potential for a tactical battle rather than an all-out war raises concerns over whether fans will feel satisfied with the bout’s outcome.
In terms of fighting philosophy, Rakhmonov and Garry represent two distinctly different approaches. Rakhmonov is known for his aggressive, “seek and destroy” technique, which is characterized by forward movement and an eagerness to finish fights. On the contrary, Garry prefers a more calculated style, utilizing his movement and range to dictate the flow of the match. This stylistic divergence sets the stage for an intriguing confrontation, as Rakhmonov’s predatory instincts will clash with Garry’s tactical acumen.
The question remains: will Garry’s evasive techniques frustrate Rakhmonov’s pursuit of a decisive victory? Or will Rakhmonov’s relentless pressure break through Garry’s defenses and lead to an exhilarating display of skill and power?
Adding another layer to the narrative, Usman’s insights into the fighters’ personal history, having trained with them at Kill Cliff FC, introduce an element of intrigue. While he refrained from confirming rumors suggesting that Rakhmonov had an edge during their training sessions, there’s no denying that familiarity breeds both respect and rivalry. This backstory could fuel the fire leading up to the fight, generating interest as fans speculate about how their past encounters might influence their performance on fight night.
The Rakhmonov vs. Garry fight at UFC 310 is shaping up to be a compelling affair filled with contrasting styles, tactical chess matches, and an undercurrent of rivalry. While Usman’s reservations highlight important considerations regarding fight dynamics, the MMA community remains optimistic about the potential for an exhilarating showdown. As fans prepare for this highly anticipated event, the question looms: will the fight meet the lofty expectations or provide an unexpected turn of events? The only way to know is to witness it live.