Islam Makhachev’s delayed return defended by UFC commentator amid Ian Machado Garry’s complaints

Jon Anik thinks the UFC welterweight champion should be getting the “benefit of the doubt.”

Islam Makhachev became the eleventh two-division champion in UFC history at Madison Square Garden last November. After leaving his lightweight reign behind, Makhachev dominated Jack Della Maddalena to begin a new chapter in his career.

Nine months are expected to have passed before the Dagestani makes his first defense, and that timeframe has left his potential next challenger less than pleased.

Jon Anik shuts down criticism over Islam Makhachev’s inactivity

While Makhachev wants to fight Kamaru Usman next, reports have suggested that Ian Machado Garry is the front-runner to face the champion later this year. But when it comes to waiting for the Dagestani’s return, the Irishman has grown impatient.

Garry has questioned Makhachev over the delay. While the champ was expected to return soon after observing Ramadan, an apparent hand injury ruled out a fight anytime soon.

Dana White says Makhachev will fight in August, and the promotion’s lead commentator has an issue with those calling out the Russian star over his extended absence.

“I think it is too harsh,” Anik said on The Bohnfire podcast with Mike Bohn.

“When you look at all of the different rumours and rumblings and things that transpired when it came to June 14, and then you inject a hand injury into the conversation, Ramadan, all these different factors, I think we should be giving the pound-for-pound king the benefit of the doubt.

“I take him at his word. … Islam is a super thoughtful, sincere, genuine guy,” he continued. “I’ve really enjoyed every single interaction with the guy, and he’s the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

“I would like to see him get a little bit more grace. We’ve seen a lot of champions have bouts of inactivity, even Ilia Topuria recently, Khamzat Chimaev. For whatever reason, Islam is drawing some unnecessary ire right now.”