Makhachev Baffled by Garry's Conduct At UFC 330

Islam Makhachev made UFC history at UFC 330 in Philadelphia, extending his win streak to 17 consecutive victories with a unanimous decision over Ian Machado Garry to retain the welterweight title.

But in the aftermath, it was his opponent's conduct inside the cage that left him puzzled. Throughout the five-round fight, Garry repeatedly showed Makhachev respect mid-bout — moments that baffled both the champion and Dana White given the intensity of the occasion.

"Honestly, I don't understand. This is a fight. This is not something we have to hug each other every round. We're going to war. We're going to break the face, break the eye. I respect all my opponents. But he respects too much,” Makhachev

Makhachev was careful to separate his confusion from any personal animosity toward Garry.

"I respect him. He's a good guy. Very kind. But this is a war. Look at my face. I just come to beat everything. It's not something you have to play. This is a fight. This is not a game,” Makhachev

The win breaks the previous UFC record for consecutive victories and cements Makhachev's place as the promotion's pound-for-pound number one. Garry gave a competitive account of himself across five rounds, but the champion's grappling and pressure proved too much in the end.