Islam Makhachev Vows to Greet Ian Garry’s Son After Missing Out on Meeting During First Faceoff

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev promises to fulfil wish of Ian Garry's son during UFC 330 fight week.

Islam Makhachev Vows to Greet Ian Garry’s Son After Missing Out on Meeting During First Faceoff

Islam Makhachev promises to meet Ian Garry's son (via Instagram, Yahoo Sports)

Islam Makhachev is nearing his first title defense at 170 pounds as he faces Ian Garry in the UFC 330 main event. A win over Garry would give the Dagestani superstar a record of 17 straight UFC victories since 2017, breaking Anderson Silva‘s record.

The UFC 330 headliners recently shared their first faceoff during fight week in Philadelphia. Makhachev and Garry squared off beside the city’s iconic Rocky statue outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The UFC used the Rocky Steps as a backdrop while promoting the upcoming welterweight championship main event.

After the faceoff, Garry’s three-year-old son, Leandro Garry, wanted to meet Makhachev, but the champion had already left. ‘Leo’ became emotional and started crying after missing the chance to meet his favorite fighter. Makhachev later addressed the moment and said he planned to make the child’s dream come true during fight week.

Yeah, sure. We will meet him. I didn’t see him there, but I’ll make him happy.

Islam Makhachev told the UFC media team

Garry’s son, Leo, has become a familiar face around the UFC during his father’s fight weeks. He has often accompanied the welterweight contender during media appearances and other UFC events. Ahead of UFC 303, Leo drew attention after showing impressions of Conor McGregor, Alex Pereira, and Max Holloway.

The story also recalls another memorable moment involving a UFC fighter and his child. UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski revealed his daughter once reminded him about his knockout loss to Makhachev. The moment followed the Australian superstar’s defeats to Makhachev at UFC 284 and UFC 294.

Makhachev has also shown a kind side toward Volkanovski’s family despite their rivalry inside the Octagon. Before UFC 298, he sent a toy gift to Volk’s daughter. The gesture came after her earlier joke about the Dagestan champion during a story about a possible break-in at their home.

Garry has consistently placed his family at the center of his life. Leo is his biological son, while the Irishman has also maintained a close bond with his wife’s son from a previous relationship.

The Irish star previously hired his wife Layla Anna Lee‘s ex-husband, Richard Cullen, as his nutritionist to remain close to his family.

Ian Garry remains confident heading into the biggest fight of his career against the Dagestani champion at UFC 330 in Philadelphia.

The welterweight title clash presents the biggest opportunity of his career. Islam Makhachev’s planned meeting with Leo also highlights the mutual respect between the two welterweights.

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Islam Makhachev shuts down Ian Garry’s striking threat ahead of UFC 330

Islam Makhachev showcased his elite wrestling during his welterweight debut against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322. He repeatedly used takedowns and control to neutralize the Australian’s striking throughout the fight. Makhachev’s dominant performance earned him the welterweight title after moving up from lightweight.

However, Makhachev has also shown his striking ability against elite opponents. At UFC 302, he hurt Dustin Poirier on the feet before securing an early takedown. The Dagestani phenom went blow for blow with Poirier till the fifth round, and then finished him with a D’Arce choke.

Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry
Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry (Image via Bleacher Report/talkSPORT)

Makhachev received praise for his striking after his UFC 302 victory over Poirier. Alexander Volkanovski also praised the Dagestani star’s striking prowess when discussing their fights. Makhachev recently explained why he does not believe Garry presents a major challenge.

Islam Makhachev has previously discussed Ian Garry’s kicking and knee attacks ahead of UFC 330. The Dagestani champion does not view those weapons as a major problem. He expects the fight to become heavily focused on grappling and believes his wrestling can control the Irishman.

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