Garry's Coach Defends Fighter's Hugging Gestures

Ian Machado Garry's coach has pushed back on criticism of the welterweight contender's friendly gestures during his title fight loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 330.

Garry challenged Makhachev for the 170-pound strap in Philadelphia last month, marking Makhachev's first title defense at welterweight. The Irishman left marks on the champion's face but was dropped by a head kick in the second round and lost a unanimous decision. In the fight's final round, cameras caught Garry greeting and briefly embracing Makhachev between exchanges, drawing flak from fans, analysts, and UFC president Dana White.

Coach Diego Lima Dismisses Friendly Gestures as Non-Factor

Diego Lima told MMA Fighting the behavior shouldn't warrant scrutiny. "I swear I didn't notice it," Lima said. "And I don't think the hugs influenced anything at all. Him greeting his opponent, honestly… Charles [Oliveira] does that too. Charles hugs everyone when the round ends, when the round starts. There's absolutely nothing wrong with it. That didn't change the outcome of the fight."

Lima defended Garry's character, calling him a family man who is respectful and polite. "If he wants to greet people more, let him greet people more," Lima added. "There's no problem with that."

Garry has since called for a title eliminator against undefeated contender Michael Morales. Carlos Prates is widely viewed as the likely next challenger for Makhachev, who aims to return before Ramadan in early 2027.

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• BJPenn — Ian Machado Garry’s coach sticks up for fighter amid hugging criticism: “There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it”