Islam Makhachev fires back at Ian Garry injury questions

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev told Ian Garry to stop worrying about his injuries and get ready to sign a contract.

Garry posted on Instagram this week calling out Makhachev for inconsistent return dates, writing that the champion first claimed a hand injury, then suggested a July comeback while Dana White said August. “We’re all waiting on you, princess,” Garry wrote, per MMA Fighting.

Makhachev responded on Twitter the next day. “Don’t worry about my injuries,” he wrote. “I’m ready at any time. I’m waiting for the contract.”

Makhachev’s welterweight title reign stalled by hand issue

The Dagestani champion won the 170-pound belt with a grappling clinic against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November, capping a lightweight run that saw him defend that title a UFC-record four times before vacating to move up. White confirmed the hand injury in recent weeks but never locked down a firm date, according to Sherdog.

Garry earned his shot by beating former champion Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar, improving his promotional record to 10-1. He is not alone in chasing Makhachev — undefeated Ecuadorian Michael Morales has also pressed his case, while Carlos Prates meets Della Maddalena at UFC Perth on May 2 with title implications hanging over the bout.

No opponent or date has been announced for Makhachev’s first welterweight defence.

Original reporting:

• mmafighting.com — Ian Machado Garry questions Islam Makhachev injury timeline, Makhachev responds | MMA Fighting
• sherdog.com — Islam Makhachev responds to Ian Garry: ‘I’m ready at any time’