Coach: Ian Machado Garry ‘doesn’t survive on the ground’ against Islam Makhachev
MMA Fighting
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Islam Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, has expressed confidence in his fighter’s ability to dominate Ian Machado Garry if they face off in a potential UFC welterweight title clash. Mendez highlighted that while Makhachev may struggle on the ground, he is certain his charge will outperform Garry in that aspect. However, in the stand-up game, Makhachev’s rangy style and technical prowess give him an edge, as even one well-timed strike could shift the momentum. Mendez emphasized that Makhachev’s versatility allows him to adapt seamlessly between striking and grappling, making him a formidable opponent regardless of the scenario.
Garry has positioned himself as a top contender with back-to-back wins over Carlos Prates and Belal Muhammad in 2025, despite his lone loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov. Known for his elite striking and claimed ground game skills, Garry is now firmly in the title picture alongside fighters like Kamaru Usman and Michael Morales. Makhachev, a two-division champion with an impressive 16-fight win streak, has consistently proven his dominance across all areas of MMA. Mendez acknowledged that while any opponent poses a challenge, Makhachev’s ability to mix striking and grappling makes him a well-rounded threat.
The potential clash between Makhachev and Garry would not only determine the next UFC welterweight champion but also deliver a stylistic showdown. Garry’s technical striking against Makhachev’s all-around game promises an exciting match. As both fighters continue to climb the rankings, fans eagerly await a bout that could redefine the division. Such high-stakes matchups are crucial in MMA, as they highlight the sport’s dynamic nature and showcase the skill sets of elite competitors. This potential fight represents not just a title shot but also a test of strategies and adaptability at the highest level.
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Originally published on MMA Fighting on 2/19/2026