Islam Makhachev Questions Ian Garry’s Wrestling Camp Gamble, Backs Jack Della Maddalena in Striking Battle

Garry isn’t alone in facing criticism for his approach. Many analysts point out that his striking, while sharp, may not be enough if he encounters an opponent with superior grappling.

Islam Makhachev’s Take on the Garry vs. JDM Dynamics

Makhachev, who aims for a busy run this year in UFC, didn’t hold back when comparing the two fighters’ striking abilities. “Ian Garry and JDM are both great strikers, but I think Jack is better in that area,” he noted. This assessment could influence how fans and analysts predict matchups in the welterweight division. Makhachev’s comments underscore a crucial point: even if Garry’s wrestling improves slightly, bridging the gap against seasoned grapplers like JDM will take more than a few months of training.

The implication is clear—Garry faces a steep uphill battle. Wrestling is not just about takedowns; it dictates fight pace and positional control and can neutralize even elite strikers. Makhachev’s insight serves as a reminder to the MMA community that developing a complete game takes years, not a quick overseas camp. For Garry, the challenge ahead is not just mastering wrestling techniques but integrating them seamlessly into his fight strategy, something that may take far longer than anticipated.

Islam’s perspective serves as a stark reality check for Ian Garry. While short-term wrestling camps may offer minor improvements, they cannot replace years of foundational training. As Garry looks to evolve into a more complete fighter, the question remains whether he can realistically close the gap against opponents like Jack Della Maddalena.